Thrombotic events in patients with cancer receiving antiangiogenesis agents

J Clin Oncol. 2009 Oct 10;27(29):4865-73. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.22.3875. Epub 2009 Aug 24.

Abstract

Tumor-associated neoangiogenesis has recently become a suitable target for antineoplastic drug development. In this overview, we discuss specific drug-associated hemostatic complications, the already known pathogenetic mechanisms involved, and the effect of varying antithrombotic strategies. Multiple agents with angiogenic inhibitory capacity (thalidomide, lenalidomide, bevacizumab, sunitinib, sorafenib, and sirolimus) have obtained US Food and Drug Administration approval, and many others have entered clinical trials. Arterial and venous thromboembolism and hemorrhage have emerged as significant toxicities associated with the use of angiogenesis inhibitors. We present a detailed analysis of the literature on thrombotic complication of antiangiogenic drugs. Close attention to hemostatic complications during antiangiogenic treatment is warranted. Further studies are required to better understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved and to define a safe prophylactic strategy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / adverse effects
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Incidence
  • Male
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Survival Analysis
  • Thalidomide / adverse effects
  • Thalidomide / therapeutic use
  • Thromboembolism / chemically induced*
  • Thromboembolism / drug therapy
  • Thromboembolism / epidemiology*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Anticoagulants
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Thalidomide