Abstract
Introduction
Thromboembolic stroke is the most common severe complication following coil embolization of intracerebral aneurysms, with a 5% incidence of permanent deficits. Despite heparin anticoagulation, rescue therapy with the platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonist abciximab may be required. However, we describe a failure of abciximab rescue therapy and discuss the importance of monitoring the variable individual response to abciximab.
Case Reports
Two patients underwent stent-assisted cerebral aneurysm coil embolization complicated by thromboembolic stroke. In one patient, abciximab rescue therapy failed and was associated with a poor neurological outcome. Thromboelastography (TEG® model 5000; Haemoscope, Skokie, IL) and platelet aggregometry suggested inadequate platelet inhibition, although other tests of platelet function suggested adequate inhibition.
Conclusion
We describe a failure of regular-dose abciximab rescue therapy for thromboembolic stroke-complicating stent-assisted cerebral aneurysm coil embolization. The use of TEG to individualize abciximab dosing in this setting may improve patient outcome, as it tracks a pattern of coagulation consistent with the clinical picture.
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Lombard, F.W., Welsby, I.J., Alexander, M.J. et al. Thromboelastography detects inadequate response to abciximab therapy during stent-assisted cerebral aneurysm coil embolization complicated by stroke. Neurocrit Care 4, 32–34 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1385/NCC:4:1:032
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1385/NCC:4:1:032