Gamer’s thrombosis: A review of published reports

Abstract

Background: Thrombosis, well known as a condition of the elderly, is occurring in the otherwise healthy adolescent population. Immobility is a significant risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and adolescents who play video games are immobile for extended periods of time. Some are presenting with VTE. When other risk factors such as obesity are present, the risk of VTE formation increases. We provide a review of published case reports regarding gaming and thrombosis. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO for articles published through July 2019, using the keywords “computer game thrombosis,”“computer game pulmonary embolism,”“computer game deep vein thrombosis,”“video game thrombosis,” “video game pulmonary embolism,” and “video game deep vein thrombosis.” Results: Of the 26 articles we identified, we included 12 articles in our review that report a total of 15 cases, of which 2 resulted in fatalities. Modifiable risk factors included cigarette use, being overweight, birth control use, and prolonged immobility. Anticoagulation was the principal treatment modality in patients presenting with gaming thrombosis. Conclusion: We strongly encourage screening gamers for possible VTEs if clinically warranted.