title: Catheter-related thrombosis in cancer patients.
abstract: Central venous catheters are commonly used in haematology departments for the administration of chemotherapy, blood products and parenteral nutrition in patients with haematological malignancy. Thrombosis is a recognized complication of such devices especially in oncology patients. Catheter-related thrombi (CRT) may lead to pulmonary embolism and infection, as well as catheter failure and potential delays in treatment. The vast majority of CRT are asymptomatic, thus a high index of suspicion is required in making the diagnosis. Doppler ultrasound or venography may be employed to identify CRT. Once confirmed, the initiation of treatment is a balance between the risks of anticoagulation against potential complications of CRT. A number of risk factors for CRT are discussed along with an overview of catheter types, their appropriate choice and intravascular positioning.
authors.affiliation: Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK.
authors.forename: Jim
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Murray
authors.forename: Elizabeth
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Precious
authors.forename: Raza
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Alikhan
mesh_terms: D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D062905:Central Venous Catheters / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000097:blood* / Q000628:therapy; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*
keywords: anticoagulation; cancer; central venous catheter; venous thrombosis