Subcutaneous Injection of Heparin Calcium Controls Chronic Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Associated with Inoperable Dissecting Aortic Aneurysm in an Outpatient Clinic

Abstract

Chronic disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare but critical complication of aortic aneurysm, and can represent a difficult long-term management problem. Although surgical correction is the treatment of choice, alternative therapy is required for inoperable patients. We report herein a case of acute exacerbation of chronic DIC with inoperable dissecting aortic aneurysm, which was recurrent and resistant to regular treatment. Intermittent subcutaneous self-injection of heparin calcium 15,000 units per day achieved stabilization of coagulation and fibrinolytic parameters and relief of the bleeding tendency. Subcutaneous heparin injection can be an alternative treatment for long-term management of chronic DIC associated with inoperable aortic dissection, beneficial for providing good symptomatic control on an outpatient basis.