Antithrombin III deficiency in a patient requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Authors

Jonathan R. Sarik, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Shinya Unai, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Harrsion Pitcher, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Qiong Yang, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Hitoshi Hirose, MD, PhD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Nicholas C. Cavarocchi, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

9-1-2013

Abstract

Introduction:

Antithrombin or antithrombin III (ATIII) is a vitamin K-independent, natural anticoagulant that is the major inhibitor of thrombin. With the binding of heparin, a conformational change in antithrombin occurs that increases the inactivation of thrombin by antithrombin by 4000-fold. Antithrombin deficiency can be hereditary or acquired; the acquired form is frequently encountered in patients requiring mechanical circulatory support.

Formulation of clots within the circuit of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-threatening emergency and requires emergent intervention. Decreased ATIII is associated with a hypercoagulable state, which can lead to dangerous complications for patients requiring mechanical circulatory support.

Recommended Citation

Sarik, MD, Jonathan R.; Unai, MD, Shinya; Pitcher, MD, Harrsion; Yang, MD, Qiong; Hirose, MD, PhD, Hitoshi; and Cavarocchi, MD, Nicholas C., "Antithrombin III deficiency in a patient requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation." (2013). Department of Surgery Faculty Papers. Paper 102.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/surgeryfp/102