Thrombosis in multiple myeloma: risk stratification, antithrombotic prophylaxis, and management of acute events. A consensus-based position paper from an ad hoc expert panel

Haematologica. 2022 Nov 1;107(11):2536-2547. doi: 10.3324/haematol.2022.280893.

Abstract

The introduction of new therapeutic agents for multiple myeloma (MM), including proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and monoclonal antibodies, has improved the outcomes of patients but, in parallel, has changed the frequency and epidemiology of thrombotic events. Thrombosis is now a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in MM patients, and optimal thromboprophylaxis is far from being reached. Moving from the recognition that the above issue represents an unmet clinical need, an expert panel assessed the scientific literature and composed a framework of recommendations for improving thrombosis control in patients who are candidates for active treatment for MM. The panel generated key clinical questions using the criterion of clinical relevance through a Delphi process. It explored four domains, i.e., thrombotic risk factors and risk stratification, primary thromboprophylaxis, management of acute thrombotic events, and secondary thromboprophylaxis. The recommendations issued may assist hematologists in minimizing the risk of thrombosis and guarantee adherence to treatment in patients with MM who are candidates for active treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects
  • Consensus
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Multiple Myeloma* / drug therapy
  • Risk Assessment
  • Thrombosis* / etiology
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / etiology

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Fibrinolytic Agents

Grants and funding

Funding: The authors would like to thank Bristol Myers Squibb Celgene for an unrestricted contribution supporting the project. The funding sources had no role in identifying statements, abstracting data, synthesizing results, grading evidence, or preparing the manuscript or in the decision to submit the manuscript for publication. The assistance of Springer Healthcare Communications in supporting consensus meetings is gratefully acknowledged.