[Screening for cancer in case of venous thromboembolism: when and how?]

Screening for cancer in case of venous thromboembolism: when and how? Cancer associated thrombosis (cat) is an important challenge. When venous thromboembolism (vte) occurs without any identified risk factors, the risk of cat raises the question of a hidden cancer and the need for an extensive screening or not. Several series have shown a prevalence between 5% and 10% of cancer when non provoqued vte is diagnosed. Most of cancers occur during the following year of vte. If we consider diagnosing the cancer in early stage, we might improve the patient outcome and reduce cancer mortality. A simple screening, including clinical examina¬tion, personal and familial history of cancer, basic laboratory tests and recommended age and sex testing is mandatory. Other exams are considered as useless at present time. Whether a tep-scan, prescribed in patients older than 50, brings a clinical benefit, is still unresolved. Screening for cancer in case of venous thromboembolism: when and how? Cancer associated thrombosis (cat) is an important challenge. When venous thromboembolism (vte) occurs without any identified risk factors, the risk of cat raises the question of a hidden cancer and the need for an extensive screening or not. Several series have shown a prevalence between 5% and 10% of cancer when non provoqued vte is diagnosed. Most of cancers occur during the following year of vte. If we consider diagnosing the cancer in early stage, we might improve the patient outcome and reduce cancer mortality. A simple screening, including clinical examina¬tion, personal and familial history of cancer, basic laboratory tests and recommended age and sex testing is mandatory. Other exams are considered as useless at present time. Whether a tep-scan, prescribed in patients older than 50, brings a clinical benefit, is still unresolved.