Description of a pediatric population followed at an anticoagulation clinic

Abstract

Introduction: In pediatric patients, 95% of venous thromboembolisms are secondary to a risk factor; the presence of central venous catheter is the most important risk factor for the development of deep vein thrombosis in this population. Studies about anticoagulation treatment in adult patients have been extrapolated to the pediatric population, it is important to consider the differential characteristics between these two populations. Method: A descriptive study was conducted; there were reviewed 2300 clinical records of patients followed by the institutional anticoagulation clinic from 2011 to 2019, looking for underage patients who have received ambulatory anticoagulation treatment management. Results: 43 patients under the age of 18 years old were found. 60% were female and the average age was 9.8 ± 5.2 years. The most prevalent pathological antecedent was valve disease (28%). The main indications for anticoagulant treatment included congenital heart disease (21%), mechanical heart valves (21%, 5 aortic and 4 mitral) and deep vein thrombosis (14%). Warfarin was found in 72% of patients. 81% of patients received extended anticoagulation therapy. The main complications during anticoagulant treatment included gynecological and cutaneous bleeding, as well as thrombocytopenia. Conclusions: Congenital heart disease and heart valve disease are the main indications for considering anticoagulation treatment in the pediatric population. Warfarin is the most formulated anticoagulant in this outpatient population. Adequate adherence and outpatient follow-up in requires additional tools to achieve excellent anticoagulant treatment.