Key result
Long-term treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin demonstrated superior efficacy over vitamin K antagonists for venous thromboembolism in cancer patients.
Why the study?
Does low-molecular-weight heparin improve outcomes compared to vitamin K antagonists in cancer patients with or at risk for VTE?
Does low-molecular-weight heparin improve outcomes compared to vitamin K antagonists in cancer patients with or at risk for VTE?
This review highlights that long-term treatment with LMWH is more effective than vitamin K antagonists for VTE management in cancer patients, emphasizing individualized therapy.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
May inform LMWH selection in cancer VTE; leaves open DOAC comparisons in updated trials.
INTRODUCTION: the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with cancer adversely affects their prognosis. Several autopsy- and population-based studies have clearly shown a negative impact of VTE on patient outcome in cancer patients. AREAS COVERED: an up-to-date review of VTE prophylaxis and treatment in cancer patients is provided with some insights on areas of uncertainty to be answered in the near future. Particular attention is paid to recent cohort studies, randomized clinical trials and consensus guidelines. EXPERT OPINION: cancer patients at a higher risk for VTE may be identified with five variables easily available before initiation of chemotherapy. Long-term treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) demonstrated a superior efficacy over vitamin K antagonists. The intensity and duration of anticoagulant therapy should be tailored to the risk of VTE recurrences or bleeding in an individual patient.
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Trujillo-Santos et al. (2011) conducted a review in Venous thromboembolism in cancer patients. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) vs. Vitamin K antagonists was evaluated. Long-term treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin demonstrated superior efficacy over vitamin K antagonists for venous thromboembolism in cancer patients.
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