Question

Low dose subcutaneous heparin therapy is indicated for:

• A. \( \text{Prevention of leg vein thrombosis in elderly patients} \)
• B. \( \text{Ischaemic stroke} \)
• C. \( \text{Patients undergoing neurosurgery} \)
• D. \( \text{Prevention of extension of coronary artery thrombus in acute myocardial infarction} \)

Hint:

Think of low-dose heparin as a preventive measure against blood clots in at-risk individuals, especially in situations like prolonged immobility or post-surgery.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Low-dose subcutaneous heparin is commonly used for the prophylaxis (prevention) of venous thromboembolism (VTE), particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism, in patients at increased risk, such as elderly patients with reduced mobility, patients undergoing surgery (especially orthopedic or major abdominal surgery), and those with certain medical conditions. While heparin is also used in the treatment of acute thrombotic events like ischaemic stroke and acute myocardial infarction (often as unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin at therapeutic doses), low-dose subcutaneous administration is primarily for prevention. In patients undergoing neurosurgery, the risk of VTE exists, but specific protocols might favor other prophylactic measures like mechanical methods or low molecular weight heparin depending on the type of surgery and patient risk factors.