Purpose of review: This review aims to assess the treatment options for cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) based on the most robust level of evidence recommendations and suggestions based on expert opinion.
Recent findings: Several classes of anticoagulants have been studied in the treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT). Since the CLOT trial, guidelines recommend the use of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for the treatment of this condition. However, since 2018, some direct oral anticoagulants became an alternative first-line treatment for CAT. Three Xa antagonists (rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban) proved to be at least as effective as the LMWH strategy for the short-term prevention of VTE recurrence. The right choice of treatment in the context of anticoagulation strategy, thrombo-hemorrhagic risk management, and a patient's comorbidities represents a challenge. The correct management of CAT and a more individualized approach are needed to identify risk factors and offer the best treatment for each patient.
Keywords: Anticoagulation; Cancer; Direct oral anticoagulants; Pulmonary embolism; Venous thromboembolism.
© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.