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Hemostatic abnormalities associated with cancer and its therapy
1Division of Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, USA.
Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science
|January 20, 1998
Summary
Cancer patients frequently experience hemostatic abnormalities, including hypercoagulability and bleeding. These changes involve coagulation factors, platelets, and vascular responses, often leading to disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC).
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Hemostatic abnormalities have been linked to malignancy since the 19th century.
- These include hypercoagulability and hemorrhage, varying with neoplasm type and therapy.
- Changes affect coagulation factors, anticoagulants, platelets, and vascular responses, often causing disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the hemostatic abnormalities associated with cancer (HAAC).
- To outline diagnostic evaluations for HAAC.
- To discuss the impact of cancer therapies on hemostasis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of hemostatic changes in malignancy.
- Description of clinical and laboratory evaluation methods for HAAC.
- Discussion of coagulation factor assays, platelet counts, and specific markers like F1+2 and fibrinopeptide A.
Main Results:
- Malignancy-associated hemostatic changes can manifest as hypercoagulability or hemorrhage.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) is a common complication.
- Cancer therapies like chemotherapy and radiation can significantly alter hemostatic activity.
Conclusions:
- HAAC is a complex interplay of the neoplasm and patient factors.
- Comprehensive evaluation requires considering the specific cancer, patient condition, and treatments.
- Understanding these abnormalities is crucial for patient management.
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