Hemostatic alterations in COVID-19

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), 1,2 that, first identified in China, has spread globally. A coagulopathy is common, particularly in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU). 3 Although controversial, 4-6 high rates of venous thromboembolism (VTE) have also been reported. The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) released a statement suggesting prophylactic low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). 8 However, the optimal strategy for prophylaxis remains controversial, 9 owing to limited knowledge on how COVID-19 affects hemostasis.