A rare occurrence of anti-glomerular basement membrane glomerulonephritis complicated by heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Introduction: Anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) disease is a rare condition that often presents as severe glomerulonephritis and pulmonary hemorrhage. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a wellknown but uncommon complication of heparin exposure that is characterized by autoantibodies against platelet factor 4 (PF4)/heparin complexes. Although these conditions are well described in the literature, the coexistence of HIT and anti-GBM glomerulonephritis is extremely rare. Case Report: We present a case of a 59-year-old gentleman with newly diagnosed anti-GBM glomerulonephritis who was treated with plasmapheresis and subsequently developed HIT with a delayed manifestation. Conclusion: This case demonstrates an interesting example of poly-autoimmunity and highlights the importance of platelet monitoring in patients with heparin exposure undergoing plasmapheresis.