Clinical Haematology2 UKMLA questions
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia — UKMLA Revision Notes
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is an important clinical condition in Clinical Haematology that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia as outlined in current NICE guidelines.
Key Facts
- Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
- Commonly tested in the Clinical Haematology section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
- Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
- NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
- Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios
Investigations
- FBC + film
- Coagulation screen (PT, APTT)
- LDH, uric acid
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Flow cytometry
- Haemoglobin electrophoresis
Management
- Treat underlying cause
- Blood product transfusion if indicated
- Anticoagulation/antiplatelet therapy
- Chemotherapy/targeted therapy for haematological malignancy
- Haematology outpatient follow-up
- Bone marrow transplant if indicated