Coagulation abnormalities associated with neoplasia

Subclinical abnormalities in hemostasis occur commonly in small animal patients with cancer, but the incidence of clinical thrombosis or hemorrhage is unknown. Malignancy can lead to abnormalities in both primary and secondary hemostasis, which in turn can lead to either thrombotic or hemorrhagic tendencies. These coagulation abnormalities can be associated with the tumor itself, with anticancer chemotherapy, or with secondary organ dysfunction. Thrombocytopenia and DIC are probably the most common defects associated with clinical bleeding in small animal patients.