Dear Editor:

Dr. Shulz-Stubner makes an excellent point that desmopressin can quickly reverse platelet dysfunction, through its action to release von Willebrand factor. Since the desmopressin effect is short-acting and neurosurgical re-bleeding carries such adverse consequences, we view this treatment as emergent and temporizing until fresh platelets can be transfused.

The caution to watch for water retention after desmopressin is quite germane in neurocritical care patients. This can lead to hyponatremia with additional adverse effects on brain edema and risk of seizures.