title: Venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer: an overview for pharmacists using a case-based approach.
abstract: Clinicians must always maintain a heightened suspicion for the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the cancer patient population. VTE is common in this population and often results in morbidity and mortality. The pathophysiology is complex and likely multifactorial. Risk factors for VTE include patient-associated, cancer-associated, and treatment-associated factors as well as biomarkers. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is a cornerstone for VTE prophylaxis and treatment. Studies have shown that LMWH may decrease VTE recurrence and impart a survival benefit. Organizational guidelines are available to assist the clinician in choosing appropriate anticoagulant agents, dosing, and duration of prophylaxis and treatment. Pharmacists serve an important role for the safe and effective management of anticoagulation in this complex patient population. In addition, pharmacists can be important providers of patient education about VTE and anticoagulation.
authors.affiliation: University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. jamaudli@med.umich.edu
authors.forename: Joanna Maudlin
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Pangilinan
mesh_terms: D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D010595:Pharmacists; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D054556:Venous Thromboembolism / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D000925:Anticoagulants; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight