Purpose of review: Cancer is a strong risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE). In patients with lung cancer VTE is a significant cause for morbidity and mortality. The purpose of the review is to summarize the epidemiology of thrombotic events, risk factors for VTE and the clinical impact of VTE in patients with lung cancer.
Recent findings: The rates of VTE in lung cancer patients vary according to different types of investigations, and reach 7 to 13%, including a significant number of unsuspected pulmonary emboli. Risk factors for VTE in patients with lung cancer can be basically divided into three categories: patient, tumor, and treatment related. In addition, a number of biomarkers have been described to be associated with VTE risk (e.g., D-dimer).
Summary: Knowledge about the epidemiology, risk factors, and prognostic value of VTE in lung cancer could help to prevent thrombotic complications and improve management of patients with lung cancer.