DermNet provides Google Translate, a free machine translation service. Note that this may not provide an exact translation in all languages
Home » Topics A–Z » Warfarin necrosis pathology
Author: A/Prof Patrick Emanuel, Dermatopathologist, Auckland, New Zealand, 2013.
Warfarin necrosis is a paradoxical blood clotting occurring in patients on warfarin therapy. It occurs in approximately one in every 10,000 patients prescribed warfarin.
In warfarin necrosis, sections show variable degrees of epidermal and dermal necrosis (figure 1). There are extensive intravascular thrombi within capillaries and venules (figures 2, 3). There remaining patent vessels are dilated.
None are needed.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation, coagulopathy – May be morphologically identical. Clinical correlation is essential.
Septic thrombi – Usually neutrophils and other inflammatory cells are also present. Special stains for microorganisms and correlation with blood culture results can be helpful.
See smartphone apps to check your skin.
[Sponsored content]
See the DermNet NZ bookstore
© 2021 DermNet New Zealand Trust.
DermNet NZ does not provide an online consultation service. If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice.