Warfarin necrosis
Warfarin Necrosis
Warfarin necrosis (pronunciation: /ˈwɔːrfərɪn ˈnɛkrəsɪs/) is a rare but severe complication that can occur in patients who are being treated with Warfarin, an anticoagulant medication.
Etymology
The term "Warfarin necrosis" is derived from the name of the drug, Warfarin, and the medical term "necrosis", which refers to the death of cells or tissues. Warfarin was named after the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) that funded its development, and the Latin word "necrosis" means "death".
Definition
Warfarin necrosis is a condition characterized by the development of painful skin lesions that can lead to skin death and gangrene. It typically occurs within the first few days of initiating Warfarin therapy.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Warfarin necrosis include:
- Painful skin lesions
- Skin discoloration
- Skin death
- Gangrene
Causes
Warfarin necrosis is caused by a rapid decrease in protein C levels in response to Warfarin therapy. Protein C is a natural anticoagulant that prevents blood clotting. When its levels drop rapidly, it can lead to the formation of blood clots in the small blood vessels of the skin, leading to necrosis.
Treatment
Treatment for Warfarin necrosis involves discontinuing Warfarin and starting treatment with Vitamin K and heparin. In severe cases, surgical debridement or amputation may be necessary.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Warfarin necrosis
- Wikipedia's article - Warfarin necrosis
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