FDA: Contaminated Heparin Found in 11 Countries

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"The fact that we have established a mechanism by which this [oversulfated condroitin sulfate] might cause adverse events we think strengthens the association considerably," Woodcock said. "In the test tube, if we use heparin with OSCS, we see changes in blood mediators that could lead to this reaction. In addition, this has been observed in animals, and we just heard today from another group of experts that they have also observed this so we think this story is starting to come together."

For now, however, the U.S. heparin supply seems to be safe, she said.

"The heparin supply in the U.S. is tested and is free of this contaminant," Woodcock said. "We now feel that we have a mechanistic link so we feel that testing requirements put into place will prevent reoccurrence of this event."

More information

The U.S. National Library of Medicine has more on heparin.