Onkológia 5/2007
LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT HEPARINS AND THEIR IMPORTANCE IN CANCER PATIENTS
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common problem in patients with cancer that complicates management and predicts for a worse prognosis. Hence, effective methods to prevent and treat VTE can reduce morbidity and mortality of cancer patients. Low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) have simplified and improved management of VTE, and recent studies suggest these agents may approve survival in cancer patients. The article reviews the role of LMWH in prevention of VTE and in promoting growth and progression of cancer in oncologic patients.
Keywords: low molecular weight heparins (LMWH), cancer, venous thromboembolism (VTE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE).
