Low-molecular-weight heparins in the treatment of venous thromboembolism

Article Abstract:

Low-molecular-weight heparin is becoming the treatment of choice for venous thromboembolism. This condition is characterized by the formation of blood clots in veins that can travel to other parts of the body, with potentially disastrous results. Consequently, these patients are often treated with heparin, which prevents blood clot formation. However, heparin has serious side effects and patients must be hospitalized and closely watched. Low-molecular-weight heparins are just as effective with few side effects and can even be administered at home, thereby preventing expensive hospitalizations.

Editorial, Drug therapy, Heparin

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The incidence of venous thromboembolism in family members of patients with factor V Leiden mutation and venous thrombosis

Article Abstract:

Close relatives of people with factor V Leiden mutation do not appear to be at high risk for venous thromboembolism. Factor V Leiden mutation is a genetic defect that confers a high risk of venous blood clots. Researchers evaluated 467 people who were children, siblings or parents of patients with the genetic mutation. Relatives who were carriers of the mutation, but did not have the condition, had an annual rate of thromboembolism of 0.45%, compared to 0.1% among those who were not gene carriers. As the risk from carrier status appears low, special treatment may not be necessary.

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Blood clots in people with the factor V Leiden mutation

Article Abstract:

The risk of blood clot formation in people with the factor V Leiden gene mutation is higher than in people without the mutation, but is still so low that it would be impractical to screen people for the mutation. This mutation is a relatively common cause of abnormal blood clotting, but in a study of 470 people with the mutation, only 9 developed an abnormal blood clot over a three-year period.

Thrombosis, Deep vein, Deep vein thrombosis

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