Versiti, Inc., a blood health and research organization, unveiled a comprehensive diagnostic testing menu for suspected vaccine-induced immune thrombotic-thrombocytopenia (VITT) in the United States.
Cases of patients developing clots (thrombosis) with low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) have been reported following some COVID-19 vaccines. VITT is a rare side effect of the adenovirus vector-based vaccines for COVID-19. Cases of VITT have been reported between 3 and approximately 20 days post vaccination. Additionally, symptoms of acute immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP) have also been reported with the vaccines.
Versiti’s unique test offering determines the presence and function of platelet-activating antibodies in patients’ blood. The presence of these antibodies may be key, following the development of these life-threating clots in individuals receiving specific COVID vaccines. These antibodies are similar to those seen in Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT). Once a patient has these antibodies, physicians and providers must implement alternate anticoagulation therapies to care for the individual.
Versiti’s Platelet and Neutrophil Immunology Laboratory provides comprehensive functional and genetic testing in support of inherited and immune platelet and neutrophil disorders. Versiti’s targeted focus includes Drug-Induced Thrombocytopenias, including Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia; Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia (ITP); Fetal and Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia (FNAIT); Allo- and Autoimmune Neutropenia; Drug-Induced Neutropenia; as well as Neonatal Alloimmune Neutropenia (NAN).
Versiti has been granted three multi-center research contracts to coordinate nationwide clinical trials aimed at establishing optimal treatment plans for preventing blood clots in people with COVID-19. The contracts were awarded to Versiti by the University of Pittsburgh with funding by National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Results of the collaborative effort of three international trials have already led to findings that may change the standard of care in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Interim results from the trials showed that full-dose anticoagulation (blood thinner) treatments given to hospitalized patients outside of the intensive care unit were shown to reduce how many people required vital organ support—such as the need for ventilation.
