Step forward in treating cancer associated thrombosis

Abstract:

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent complication in patients with active cancer and one of the leading causes of death among cancer patients. Although current guidelines support the use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) as a first-line treatment for cancer associated VTE, many clinicians still have not implemented these recommendations in practice. In these patients, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are increasingly common choice. Results from randomized clinical trials and clinical practice data comparing rivaroxaban with LMWH and with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) indicate that rivaroxaban is effective and safe in this indication. In the absence of known drug-drug interactions with systemic anticancer therapy, ISTH guidelines recommend rivaroxaban in cancer patients with acute VTE and low risk of bleeding.

Key words:
cancer, rivaroxaban, venous thromboembolism