Thrombocytopenia and other hot topics.

Am J Clin Oncol. 2009 Aug;32(4 Suppl):S13-7

Authors: DeLoughery TG

A frequent issue in the management of cancer patients with thrombosis is thrombocytopenia, whether related to chemotherapy, heparin, or other drugs. The oncologist will have multiple new anticoagulants to choose from in the future, but for now, the effect of these experimental agents on cancer thrombosis is unknown. Despite the effectiveness of anticoagulation in cancer patients, survival benefit remains controversial. Given the ongoing clinical questions and new drugs, anticoagulant therapy in patients with cancer promises to have an exciting future.

PMID: 19654480 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients: a review.

Am J Clin Oncol. 2009 Aug;32(4 Suppl):S8-S12

Authors: Ansell JE

Thromboprophylaxis is underused in patients with cancer, despite the fact that malignancy is a serious risk factor for venous thromboembolism in this population. Major medical guidelines, including those published recently by the American College of Chest Physicians, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, recommend routine thromboprophylaxis for patients with cancer under certain situations. This review describes current recommendations for primary and secondary prophylaxis in patients with cancer.

PMID: 19654482 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]