Prothrombin complex concentrates in emergency bleeding disorders

Abstract

The use of prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs), a heterogeneous combination of coagulation factors and counterbalancing inhibitor components, has broadened in recent years beyond single-factor replacement in conditions such as hemophilia B, to encompass emergency reversal of anticoagulation secondary to oral vitamin K antagonists, ie, warfarin therapy. PCCs also have been studied in other bleeding disorders, such as surgery-related and trauma-related bleeding. This review provides an updated examination of the differences among PCC formulations, their potential role in the management of bleeding disorders, and the primary safety issues affecting their use. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc..