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Venous Thrombotic Events and Anticoagulation in Brain Tumor Patients

  • Neuro-oncology (KS Nevel, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Brain tumor patients have a 20–30% risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), with management complicated by risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Here we review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and recommended management of VTE in brain tumors.

Recent Findings

New risk factors and molecular mechanisms of VTE in brain tumor patients have emerged, including the protective effect of IDH mutation in gliomas and the potential role of podoplanin-mediated platelet aggregation in thrombogenesis in these tumors. Recent studies show that the risk of ICH is not significantly higher in brain tumor patients receiving anticoagulation. Based on systemic cancer trials, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) may be a suitable alternative to traditional heparin treatment, but the applicability of these findings to brain tumors is unclear.

Summary

Anticoagulation is indicated in the treatment of VTE for brain tumor patients, and appears to be reasonably safe; based on retrospective evidence, DOACs may be a reasonable agent.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurology, Neurology Department, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue7th floor, New York, NY, C-71610065, USA

    Maria Diaz

  2. Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, East Carolina University, Brody 3E137, 600 Moye Blvd, NC, 27834, Greenville, USA

    Jasmin Jo

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Diaz, M., Jo, J. Venous Thrombotic Events and Anticoagulation in Brain Tumor Patients. Curr Oncol Rep 24, 493–500 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-021-01178-9

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