Systolic Heart Failure: A Prothrombotic State

 

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ABSTRACT

Systolic heart failure is a common syndrome whose incidence is expected to increase. Several treatment modalities, such as β-blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, improve survival. Whether antithrombotic treatment is effective remains to be elucidated, although observations suggest a prothrombotic state in heart failure. This article focuses on this prothrombotic state and discusses the risk of thromboembolic events, pathophysiological mechanisms, and the potential role of anticoagulant treatment.

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O.R. de PeuterM.D. 

Academic Medical Centre, Department of Vascular Medicine

PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam

Email: O.R.dePeuter@amc.uva.nl