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Antithrombotic therapy and cancer
Marcello Di Nisio1, Alessandro Squizzato, Clara P W Klerk
1Department of Vascular Medicine and of Oncology, Academic Medical Center, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands. marcellodinisio@hotmail.com
Current Opinion in Hematology
|July 17, 2004
Summary
Antithrombotic agents show promise in preventing and treating venous thromboembolism in cancer patients. Some agents may also improve cancer prognosis, but further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cancer patients have a higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE).
- Antithrombotic agents are used for VTE prophylaxis and treatment.
- Potential direct effects of antithrombotics on cancer progression are being investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent clinical trial evidence on antithrombotic agents for VTE in cancer patients.
- To evaluate the impact of these agents on cancer progression and patient prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of recent clinical trials.
- Analysis of evidence regarding VTE prophylaxis and treatment in oncology.
- Assessment of studies reporting effects on cancer outcomes.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports antithrombotic strategies for VTE prevention in specific cancer patient subgroups.
- Low-molecular-weight heparin is a viable alternative to vitamin K antagonists for long-term VTE management in cancer.
- Some antithrombotic agents, like aspirin and low-molecular-weight heparin, show potential anticancer activity and improved prognosis.
Conclusions:
- Low-molecular-weight heparin may be a useful option for VTE management in cancer, but risk-benefit data require further large-scale trials.
- Promising findings on antithrombotic agents' impact on cancer prognosis warrant additional investigation to determine clinical feasibility.