Heparin-resistant Thrombosis Due to Homozygous Antithrombin Deficiency Treated With Rivaroxaban: A Case Report

BACKGROUND: Heparin fulfills its anticoagulant action through activation of antithrombin (AT), and thus thrombosis secondary to AT deficiency can be associated with heparin resistance.

OBSERVATION: A 12-year-old girl with severe venous thrombosis was referred to us because of undetectable anti-Xa levels despite low-molecular-weight heparin therapy. Laboratory investigations revealed a homozygous AT mutation in the heparin binding site (AT Budapest III). She was subsequently treated with rivaroxaban successfully.

CONCLUSIONS: Heparin resistance warrants evaluation for AT deficiency. Rivaroxaban may be considered a valid anticoagulant alternative to low-molecular-weight heparin in these patients.