Antithrombotic therapy and cancer

Abstract

Purpose of the review: To assess the current evidence from recent clinical trials investigating antithrombotic agents for the prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients and for the effects of these agents on cancer progression. Recent findings: A growing body of evidence supports the preventive use of antithrombotic strategies in subgroups of cancer patients. Moreover, in the long-term management of deep venous thrombosis in cancer patients, low-molecular-weight heparin seems to represent a valid alternative to vitamin K antagonists. Finally, several studies have claimed a direct anticancer activity and a positive impact on prognosis of some antithrombotic agents, eg, aspirin and low-molecular-weight heparin. Summary: Although recent evidence suggests low-molecular-weight heparin as a possible option in the management and prevention of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients, more evidence from large randomized, prospective, controlled trials is needed to determine the exact the magnitude of the risk-benefit ratio associated with its use. The promising results on the effects of antithrombotic agents in the prognosis of cancer patients deserve further evaluation to estimate the potential and the feasibility of this approach. © 2004 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.