Semin Thromb Hemost
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1788790
Review Article

Catastrophic Thrombosis: A Narrative Review

Massimo Franchini
1   Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantova, Italy
,
Daniele Focosi
2   North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Italy
,
Mario Piergiulio Pezzo
1   Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantova, Italy
,
Pier Mannuccio Mannucci
3   Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico and University of Milan, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Milan, Italy
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

Catastrophic thrombosis is a severe condition characterized by a hypercoagulable tendency, leading to multiple thromboembolic events in different blood vessels, usually within a short timeframe. Several conditions have been associated with the development of catastrophic thrombosis, including the catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome, thrombotic anti-platelet factor 4 immune disorders, thrombotic microangiopathies, cancers, the hyper-eosinophilic syndrome, pregnancy, infections, trauma, and drugs. Thrombotic storm represents a medical emergency whose management represents a serious challenge for physicians. Besides the prompt start of anticoagulation, a patient's prognosis depends on early recognition and possible treatment of the underlying condition. In this narrative review, we summarize the main characteristics of catastrophic thrombosis, analyzing the various conditions triggering such life-threatening complication. Finally, an algorithm with the diagnostic workup and the initial management of patients with catastrophic thrombosis is presented.



Publication History

Article published online:
16 August 2024

© 2024. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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