Anti-platelet factor 4/heparin antibodies in patients with Hantaan virus infection.

Background: Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) induced by Hantaan virus infection and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) are associated with symptoms such as thrombocytopenia and thrombosis. However, related molecules, such as anti-platelet factor 4 (PF4)/heparin antibodies, in patients with HFRS have not been evaluated.

Objectives: To test plasma levels of anti-PF4/heparin antibodies and study the possible role of these antibodies in HFRS pathogenesis.