Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer: an update.

The close correlation between venous thromboembolism (VTE) and cancer has been known for some time, and numerous reports in the literature have highlighted the epidemiological significance. Moreover, VTE has a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality in oncological patients. The prevention and treatment of VTE are important aspects of the clinical management of patients with cancer. The presence of a tumour is often associated with thrombotic complications that are more difficult to diagnose, and sometimes make the treatment of VTE less effective and more likely to cause haemorrhages.