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Fig. 2 | Experimental Hematology & Oncology

Fig. 2

From: Apixaban for treatment of confirmed heparin-induced thrombocytopenia: a case report and review of literature

Fig. 2

Mechanism of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Negatively charged heparin binds to positively charged platelet factor-4 (PF-4) forming antigenic multimeric complexes, resulting in IgG formation against these complexes. These antibodies bind to the Fc site on platelets and cause further PF-4 release from alpha-granules. Concurrently, monocytes are activated and release tissue factor, further activating thrombin and propagating endothelial damage

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