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Semin Thromb Hemost 2009; 35(5): 497-504
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1234145
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Systolic Heart Failure: A Prothrombotic State

Olav R. de Peuter1 , Wouter E. M Kok2 , Christian Torp-Pedersen3 , Harry R. Büller1 , Pieter W. Kamphuisen1
  • 1Department of Vascular Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
  • 2Department of Cardiology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
  • 3Department of Cardiology, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
08 September 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Systolic heart failure is a common syndrome whose incidence is expected to increase. Several treatment modalities, such as β-blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, improve survival. Whether antithrombotic treatment is effective remains to be elucidated, although observations suggest a prothrombotic state in heart failure. This article focuses on this prothrombotic state and discusses the risk of thromboembolic events, pathophysiological mechanisms, and the potential role of anticoagulant treatment.

KEYWORDS

Heart failure - hemostasis - anticoagulants - platelet aggregation inhibitors

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O.R. de PeuterM.D. 

Academic Medical Centre, Department of Vascular Medicine

PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam

Email: O.R.dePeuter@amc.uva.nl