Deep vein thromboembolism in malignant diseases

Overview

Tumourous diseases are associated with haemorrhagic as well as thrombotic complications. Trousseau described in 1865 a mutual association between tumourous diseases and venous thromboembolism. As many as 15–20 % patients with venous thromboembolism have an undetected malignity, which equals a prevalence of 2–3 % in the population. From this ensues the relative risk of a newly diagnosed malignity which is higher during the first year after venous thromboembolism. Migrating thrombophlebitis is a relatively specific sign in tumours, in particular in pancreatic tumours. In the pathogenesis of venous thromboembolisms in tumourous diseases, the following factors play a significant part: elevated coagulation parameters, reduced fibrinolysis, frequent immobilization, surgical operations in the case history, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and central venous catheters. Conventional long term management of VTE involves the use of vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin, to reduce the risk of recurrence. Recent evidence-based approach in long term management of VTE in patients with tumorous disease shows that the use of LMWH offers an effective alternative to VKAs with higher efficacy, without a significantly increased risk of bleeding, and without the need for regular laboratory monitoring.

Key words:
haemostasis – deep venous thrombosis – tumourous diseases – pathogenesis – treatment – unfractionated/low molecular weight heparin – warfarin