Warfarin-induced skin necrosis

Abstract

Skin necrosis is a rare but serious side-effect of treatment with warfarin. At particular risk are those with various thrombophilic abnormalities, especially when warfarinization is undertaken rapidly with large loading doses of warfarin. With the increasing number of patients anticoagulated as out-patients for thromboprophylaxis, we are concerned that the incidence of skin necrosis may increase. If skin necrosis does occur, prompt remedial action may be of benefit in preventing permanent tissue damage.