Thrombosis in cancer patients

VTE is a common complication in cancer patients and may even be the first sign of malignancy. Cancer induces activation of the blood coagulation in most cancer patients. Tissue factor and cancer procoagulant are expressed on tumour cells, leading to activation of clotting factors VII and X. Cytokines released from tumour cells activate coagulant activity on monocytes, thrombocytes, and endothelial cells. This process of activated clotting enhances clinical VTE. Low-molecular weight heparins are effective and safe for the prevention and treatment of VTE in cancer patients. Activated coagulation supports tumour growth and angiogenesis. This concept may offer interesting new strategies for the treatment of cancer [28].