High incidence of protein S abnormalities in patients with catheter-related thrombosis

Background: Patients with gastroparesis requiring IV access are at risk for catheter-related thrombosis (CRT). In this group of patients at risk for thrombosis, the incidence of Protein S deficiency and the occurrence of subsequent CRT is not known. Methods: We aimed to evaluate the occurrence of a baseline hematologic or autoimmune abnormalities in patients (pts) with Upper GI motor disorders (UGIMD) needing IV access who were followed for subsequent catheter-related thrombosis (CRT). We studied 53 pts (6 m, 47 f, mean age 39 ) with gastroparesis (6 with diabetes mellitus and 47 with idiopathic disease) who underwent evaluation for hypercoagulable states and/or auto antibodies by Western blot (GE 108(4): A734, 1995). After IVA placement, pts were classified into 2 groups: those with clinical thrombosis (CLOT) vs. those without (NO CLOT). Results were analyzed by T-tests and reported as mean ± SE. Results: 53 pts with baseline hematologic and autoimmune evaluations are summarized below. CRT was noted in 14 out of 53 pts (26%) See Tables Conclusions: A high frequency of protein S deficiency was noted in this group of pts with GI motor disorders and catheter related thrombosis. Protein S deficiency as seen in these pts, might result from underlying inflammation and acute phase protein release. Further prospective studies are indicated to explore possible underlying mechanisms of this observed increase of thrombosis in pts with gastrointestinal motor disorders.