Thromboembolic Events Burden in Patients With Solid Tumors and Their Predisposing Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The relationship between cancers and thromboembolic events is well established. In our study we aim to determine the burden of thromboembolic events in patients with solid tumors and identify the risk factors related to their development.Methods: Data on patients with solid tumors and thromboembolism between January 2013 and September 2014 were collected and analyzed. Results: During the studied period 174 patients were identified, 172 (98.9%) of which had venous thrombus embolism. 137 (79%) were diagnosed with deep vein thromboses and 67 (38.5%) with pulmonary embolisms. 84 (48.3%) were symptomatic and 90 (51.7) were incidental at diagnosis. The most common risk factors were female sex, high Body mass index, metastatic stage, colorectal and breast primaries, and anti-neoplastic therapy.Conclusion: Our study confirmed the high burden of thromboembolic events in cancer patients and the relevant risk factors associated with its development.