High platelet counts in pregnant women may lead to blood clotting in the placenta, disturbing blood flow to the fetus and increasing the risk of miscarriage, small babies, or preeclampsia (high blood pressure and kidney problems in the pregnant woman). Treating such women with anticoagulants to inhibit blood clotting has been suggested to prevent these complications, but there has been controversy whether they are helpful. In a new trial in pregnant women with high platelet counts and a previous complicated pregnancy, complication rates were the same whether or not women were treated with the anticoagulant dalteparin. Thus, we do not recommend anticoagulant treatment in this setting. For related UpToDate “What’s New” content and the supporting evidence click here:
Posted on: Tue, 21 Oct 2014 14:45:06 +0000