[Antithrombotic treatment and cancer]

Abstract

Five to 10 % of cancers are complicated by venous thromboembolism. A score is available to classify patients according to their risk of venous thromboembolism. The long-term prophylaxis is not recommended in patients with cancer, even if it reduces the incidence of thromboembolic events, due to the high number of patients to treat to prevent one event. The treatment of venous thromboembolism in cancer is based on the use of low-molecular weight heparin for at least 3 months. The potential role of antithrombotic drugs in the prevention and adjuvant treatment of some cancers is being evaluated.