Outcomes during anticoagulation in patients with symptomatic vs. incidental splanchnic vein thrombosis

SEOM clinical guidelines on venous thromboembolism (VTE) and cancer (2023)

The Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) last published clinical guidelines on venous thromboembolism (VTE) and cancer in 2019, with a partial update in 2020. In this new update to the guidelines, SEOM seeks to incorporate recent evidence, based on a critical review of the literature, to provide practical current recommendations for the prophylactic and therapeutic management of VTE in patients with cancer. Special clinical situations whose management and/or choice of currently recommended therapeutic options (low-molecular-weight heparins [LMWHs] or direct-acting oral anticoagulants [DOACs]) is controversial are included.

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: The State-of-the-Art on Anticoagulant Treatment

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a rare type of venous thromboembolism occurring within the splanchnic venous system. Portal vein thrombosis is the most common presentation, while Budd-Chiari syndrome is the least common. Liver cirrhosis and abdominal solid cancer are the main local risk factors for SVT, whereas myeloproliferative neoplasms are the predominant systemic risk factors. Signs and symptoms of SVT are nonspecific and include abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and ascites. Asymptomatic SVT is not uncommon, and the majority would be detected incidentally on routine abdominal imaging performed for the follow-up of liver diseases and tumors. The management of SVT aims to prevent thrombus progression, promote vessel recanalization, and prevent recurrent venous thromboembolism. Anticoagulation should be started early in order to increase the chances of vessel recanalization and reduce the risk of portal hypertension-related complications. Direct oral anticoagulants have been included in recent guidelines, as alternatives to vitamin K antagonists, after clinical stability has been reached; however, caution is required in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction. Treatment duration is based on the presence (or absence) and type (transient vs. permanent) of risk factors. This narrative review aims to summarize the latest evidence on SVT, with a particular focus on the anticoagulant treatment in special categories of patients (e.g., liver cirrhosis, solid cancer, myeloproliferative neoplasms, pancreatitis, incidentally detected SVT, Budd-Chiari syndrome, and chronic SVT).

Efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban versus warfarin in the management of unusual site deep vein thrombosis: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Unusual site deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was defined as venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurring outside the conventional deep veins of the lower extremity or pulmonary arteries. However, the optimal anticoagulation therapy for unusual site DVT remained unclear. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban in unusual site DVT.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled consecutive patients at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital between January 2011 and December 2021 who were diagnosed with unusual site DVT. Patients were divided into two groups based on their ultimate medication choice: the warfarin group and the rivaroxaban group. The demographic characteristics were recorded for all enrolled patients. Clinical outcomes included recurrent VTE, bleeding complications and major bleeding.

Results

A total of 1,088 patients were divided into warfarin (n = 514) and rivaroxaban (n = 574) groups. After the stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting, Hazard Ratios for warfarin vs. rivaroxaban of recurrent VTE, bleeding complications and major bleeding were 0.52(95% CI: 0.25-1.08), 0.30(95% CI: 0.14-0.60), and 0.33 (95% CI, 0.13-0.74), respectively. Risk of clinical outcomes in specified subgroups for age, gender, renal function, thrombosis sites and diagnosis were assessed. The interaction of gender and treatment on major bleeding was significant (P for interaction = 0.062). Otherwise, there was no significant interaction between the other subgroups and the treatment group in terms of clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Compared with warfarin, rivaroxaban exhibited comparable efficacy for the anticoagulant treatment of unusual site DVT, associated with a lower risk of bleeding complications and major bleeding.

Portal Vein Thrombosis: State-of-the-Art Review

Background: Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare disease with an estimated incidence of 2 to 4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The most common predisposing conditions for PVT are chronic liver diseases (cirrhosis), primary or secondary hepatobiliary malignancy, major infectious or inflammatory abdominal disease, or myeloproliferative disorders. Methods: PVT can be classified on the basis of the anatomical site, the degree of venous occlusion, and the timing and type of presentation. The main differential diagnosis of PVT, both acute and chronic, is malignant portal vein invasion, most frequently by hepatocarcinoma, or constriction (typically by pancreatic cancer or cholangiocarcinoma). Results: The management of PVT is based on anticoagulation and the treatment of predisposing conditions. The aim of anticoagulation in acute thrombosis is to prevent the extension of the clot and enable the recanalization of the vein to avoid the development of complications, such as intestinal infarction and portal hypertension. Conclusions: The treatment with anticoagulant therapy favors the reduction of portal hypertension, and this allows for a decrease in the risk of bleeding, especially in patients with esophageal varices. The anticoagulant treatment is generally recommended for at least three to six months. Prosecution of anticoagulation is advised until recanalization or lifelong if the patient has an underlying permanent pro-coagulant condition that cannot be corrected or if there is thrombosis extending to the mesenteric veins.

Cancer-associated splanchnic vein thrombosis: Clinical implications and management considerations

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), a thrombosis which involves the portal, mesenteric, and splenic veins, and the Budd-Chiari syndrome, represents an uncommon type of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Like with deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities and pulmonary embolism, ample evidence suggests a significant association between SVT and cancer, particularly intra-abdominal solid malignancies (e.g. hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancers) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Clinical symptoms of SVT in cancer patients can be ambiguous, and frequently attributed to the primary cancer itself. Alternatively, SVT may be asymptomatic and detected incidentally during cancer staging or follow-up evaluations. SVT can also precede the diagnosis of cancer and has been associated with poorer outcomes in patients with liver or pancreatic cancers. Therefore, an unprovoked SVT warrants a thorough evaluation for an underlying malignancy or MPN. Cancer-associated SVT carries a high risk of VTE extension, recurrence and bleeding. Extended anticoagulant treatment is often required in the absence of a high bleeding risk. Guidelines suggest treatment with either low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), although available data on the safety and effectiveness of DOACs in these patients is limited. This comprehensive review outlines the epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, and diagnosis of cancer-associated SVT and underscores the importance of comprehensive patient evaluation and evidence-based management.

Efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants in splanchnic vein thrombosis: a pooled analysis of literature studies

BACKGROUND

Limited evidence is available on management of splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT).

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate safety and efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for SVT treatment.

METHODS

Studies were systematically searched in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases according to PRISMA guidelines. We assessed any recanalization, full recanalization, recurrence, mortality, and major bleeding as outcomes of interest. Results were reported as weighted mean prevalence (WMP) with 95% CI. Subgroup analyses and meta-regressions have been performed to address heterogeneity and adjust for potential confounders.

RESULTS

We included a total of 16 studies (17 datasets) on 648 patients with SVT treated with DOACs. We found any recanalization in 60.3% (95% CI: 41.8%-76.3%; I2 = 84.9%; P < .001) and full recanalization in 51.7% (95% CI: 36.0%-67.0%; I2 = 87.4%; P < .001). Recurrent venous thromboembolism occurred in 2.8% (95% CI: 1.4%-5.9%; I2 = 0%; P = .787) and death in 3.4% (95% CI: 1.6%-7.3%; I2 = 13.2%; P = .318) of patients. Major bleeding was reported by 5.8% (95% CI: 3.7%-8.9%; I2 = 29.2%; P = .125) of patients. Results were consistent when separately analyzing prospective studies, retrospective studies, studies on cirrhotic patients, and studies enrolling patients with portal vein thrombosis. Meta-regression analyses showed that an increasing age and cancer impacted the rate of recanalization. Cirrhosis was associated with a higher rate of major bleeding and mortality.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study, mostly based on observational studies, suggest good safety and efficacy profiles of DOACs in patients with SVT. Randomized studies are needed to corroborate our findings.

Intestinal Obstruction as Initial Presentation of Idiopathic Portal and Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis: Diagnosis, Management, and Literature Review

It is quite common for portal vein thrombosis to occur in subjects who present predisposing conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatobiliary malignancies, infectious or inflammatory abdominal diseases, or hematologic disorders. The incidence of idiopathic portal vein thrombosis in non-cirrhotic patients remains low, and despite the intensive workup that is performed in these cases, in up to 25% of cases, there is no identifiable cause. If portal vein thrombosis is untreated, complications arise and include portal hypertension, cavernous transformation of the portal vein, gastroesophageal and even small intestinal varices, septic thrombosis, or intestinal ischemia. However, intestinal ischemia develops as a consequence of arterial thrombosis or embolism, and the thrombosis of the mesenteric vein accounts for about 10% of cases of intestinal ischemia. Although acute superior mesenteric vein thrombosis can cause acute intestinal ischemia, its chronic form is less likely to cause acute intestinal ischemia, considering the possibility of developing collateral drainage. Ileus due to mesenteric venous thrombosis is rare, and only a small number of cases have been reported to date. Most patients experience a distinct episode of acute abdominal pain due to ischemia, and in the second phase, they develop an obstruction/ileus. Acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis is a rare condition that is still associated with a high mortality rate. The management of such cases of superior mesenteric venous thrombosis is clinically challenging due to their insidious onset and rapid development. A prompt and accurate diagnosis followed by a timely surgical treatment is important to save patient lives, improve the patient survival rate, and conserve as much of the patient's bowel as possible, thus leading to fewer sequelae.

Cancer-Associated Abdominal Vein Thrombosis

Cancer is associated with an increased risk of developing venous thromboembolism, due to its direct influence on the three pillars of Virchow's triad (e.g., compression on the blood vessels by the tumour, blood vessels invasion, and cytokine release), together with the effect of exogenous factors (such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery). In cancer patients, the risk of thrombosis at unusual sites, such as splanchnic, ovarian and renal vein thrombosis, is also increased. Abdominal vein thromboses are frequently incidental findings on abdominal imaging performed as part of the diagnostic/staging workup or the follow-up care of malignancies. There is little evidence on the management of unusual site venous thromboembolism in cancer patients since there are only a few specific recommendations; thus, the management follows the general principles of the treatment of cancer-associated deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. This narrative review summarises the latest evidence on cancer-associated abdominal vein thrombosis, i.e., thrombosis of the splanchnic, ovarian and renal veins.

Cancer-associated splanchnic vein thrombosis: Clinical features upon diagnosis and short-term outcomes

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) in cancer patients has increased in recent years and its real clinical significance and management can be challenging. This study aimed to describe the clinical presentation and short-term outcomes of patients with cancer-associated SVT.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study of consecutive patients with cancer-associated SVT diagnosed during the period 2015-2020. The primary objective was to describe the clinical presentation of SVT. Patients were clinically classified into two groups based on the presence of symptoms on SVT diagnosis. The main outcomes were overall and SVT-related mortality, major and non-major bleeding rates, and the thrombosis recurrence rate in the first 30 days of follow-up.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 203 patients. Intra-abdominal tumors (76 %) and metastatic disease (68 %) predominated. A total of 79 (39 %) patients without symptoms were diagnosed with SVT during a scheduled radiological test and were classified as "asymptomatic", while 124 (61 %) patients presented some potential SVT symptoms and were considered as "symptomatic". Although the 30-day outcomes showed no significant differences between the two groups, mortality in the asymptomatic group was slightly lower compared to the symptomatic group (3 % vs. 10 %, p = 0.085).

CONCLUSIONS

Almost 40 % of cases of cancer-associated SVT are asymptomatic. There were no significant differences in short-term outcomes between the symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. More studies are required to better define long-term management and outcomes in these patients.

Unmet clinical needs in the prevention and treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. Based on accumulating evidence, the prophylaxis and treatment of cancer-associated VTE have been changed over the years. Recently, the introduction in clinical practice of the direct oral anticoagulants has radically changed the management of cancer-associated VTE for their easier use and non-inferior efficacy-safety profile compared to low-molecular-weight heparins. However, the heterogeneity of the cancer population in terms of site, type and stage of the malignancy, the presence of comorbidities, and the variability in cancer treatment and prognosis represent major challenges in the management of VTE in patients with cancer. In the present review, we will discuss clinical questions that represent unsolved issues in the setting of cancer-associated VTE and provide an overview on recent evidence on this topic: primary prophylaxis in ambulatory cancer patients treated with chemotherapy and in cancer surgical patients, need of long-term anticoagulation in cancer patients, treatment of VTE in cancer patients at increased bleeding risk and in special categories such as incidental VTE, splanchnic vein thrombosis or catheter-related thrombosis.

Shedding Light on the Pathogenesis of Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis

Splanchnic vein thrombosis is a rare but potentially life-threatening manifestation of venous thromboembolism, with challenging implications both at the pathological and therapeutic level. It is frequently associated with liver cirrhosis, but it could also be provoked by myeloproliferative disorders, cancer of various gastroenterological origin, abdominal infections and thrombophilia. A portion of splanchnic vein thrombosis is still classified as idiopathic. Here, we review the mechanisms of splanchnic vein thrombosis, including new insights on the role of clonal hematopoiesis in idiopathic SVT pathogenesis, with important implications from the therapeutic standpoint.

Anticoagulant therapy for splanchnic vein thrombosis: an individual patient data meta-analysis

Robust evidence on the optimal management of splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is lacking. We conducted an individual patient meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of anticoagulation for splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT). MEDLINE, EMBASE, and clincaltrials.gov., were searched up to June 2021 for prospective cohorts or randomized clinical trials including patients with SVT. Data from individual datasets were merged, and any discrepancy with published data was resolved by contacting study authors. Three studies for a total of 1635 patients were included. Eighty-five percent of patients received anticoagulation for a median duration of 316 days (range 1 to 730 days). Overall, incidence rates for recurrent VTE, major bleeding, and mortality were 5.3/100 patients-years (p-y) (95% CI, 5.1 to 5.5), 4.4/100 p-y (95% CI, 4.2 to 4.6), and 13.0/100 p-y (95% CI, 12.4 to 13.6), respectively. The incidence rates of all outcomes were lower during anticoagulation and higher after treatment discontinuation or when anticoagulation was not administered. In multivariable analysis, anticoagulant treatment appeared to be associated with a lower risk of recurrent VTE (Hazard Ratio [HR] 0.42; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.64), major bleeding (HR 0.47; 95% CI, 0.30 to 0.74), and mortality (HR 0.23; 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.31). Results were consistent in patients with cirrhosis, solid cancer, myeloproliferative neoplasms, unprovoked SVT, and SVT associated with transient or persistent non-malignant risk factors. In patients with SVT the risk of recurrent VTE and major bleeding is substantial. Anticoagulant treatment is associated with reduced risk of both outcomes.

Treatment of Atypical Clots

The term unusual site thrombosis refers to the occurrence of venous thromboembolism outside of the lower limbs and the pulmonary arteries. Unusual site thrombosis can virtually affect any venous segment, with the most common and/or clinically relevant sites including the upper limbs veins, the retinal veins, the splanchnic veins and the cerebral veins. Clinical features are obviously heterogeneous, while many predisposing factors are common, though with different prevalence among the various disorders. Antithrombotic therapy is prescribed to most patients, but the type, intensity, and duration of treatment vary both within and among patient groups. Increasing evidence is supporting the use of the direct oral anticoagulants in patients with upper limb deep vein thrombosis, cerebral vein thrombosis, and with splanchnic vein thrombosis. This article will review available evidence on the treatment of venous thrombosis occurring in unusual sites.

Anticoagulation and Vessel Recanalization in Cirrhotic Patients with Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: A Multidisciplinary "Real Life" Experience

Background and Aim

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a potentially life-threatening complication of liver cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a multi-disciplinary approach and early anticoagulation therapy (AT) on bleeding/thrombotic events, recanalization rates and outcome of cirrhotic patients with SVT.

Methods

This is a single-center, registry-based cohort study. Over 17 years, 149 SVT patients were enrolled and prospectively evaluated. Regarding cirrhotic-SVT, a pre-specified algorithm, guiding initial posology of AT and follow-up visits schedule, was performed. Major bleeding (MB), thrombotic events, functional liver scores and all cause-mortality were investigated. Efficacy of AT was evaluated by radiological imaging.

Results

In cirrhotic-SVT, the incidence rate of MB was 8.4 per 100 patient-year (95% CI, 3.83–15.97), while the incidence rate of thrombosis was 5.6 per 100 patient-year (95% CI, 2.05–12.2). In incidental SVT treated with AT, MB incidence was 6.5 per 100 patient-year (95% CI: 2.8–12.82), while in symptomatic SVT was 2.2 per 100 patient-year (95% CI: 0.25–8.02). All thrombotic recurrences occurred in incidental SVT (7.7 per 100 patient-years; 95% CI, 3.71–14.26). Overall survival was significantly higher in patients who had at least a partial recanalization (p < 0.01) and partial/total recanalization was independently associated with improved MELD score at multivariate analysis (HR 2.62, 95% CI 1.1–6.47, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

In cirrhotic SVT patients, partial or total resolution of thrombosis ameliorates liver function and is associated with higher overall survival. A multidisciplinary approach together with radiological follow-up at pre-fixed time improves patient selection and monitoring.

Anticoagulant therapy for splanchnic vein thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Treatment of splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is challenging, and evidence to guide therapeutic decisions remains scarce. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy and safety of anticoagulant therapy for SVT. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched from inception through December 2019, without language restrictions, to include observational studies and randomized controlled trials reporting radiological or clinical outcomes in patients with SVT. Pooled proportions and risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated in a random-effects model. Of 4312 records identified by the search, 97 studies including 7969 patients were analyzed. In patients receiving anticoagulation, the rates of SVT recanalization, SVT progression, recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE), major bleeding, and overall mortality were 58% (95% CI, 51-64), 5% (95% CI, 3-7), 11% (95% CI, 8-15), 9% (95% CI, 7-12), and 11% (95% CI, 9-14), respectively. The corresponding values in patients without anticoagulation were 22% (95% CI, 15-31), 15% (95% CI, 8-27), 14% (95% CI, 9-21), 16% (95% CI, 13-20), and 25% (95% CI, 20-31). Compared with no treatment, anticoagulant therapy obtained higher recanalization (RR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.66-3.44) and lower thrombosis progression (RR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.13-0.42), major bleeding (RR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.58-0.92), and overall mortality (RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.33-0.60). These results demonstrate that anticoagulant therapy improves SVT recanalization and reduces the risk of thrombosis progression without increasing major bleeding. The incidence of recurrent VTE remained substantial in patients receiving anticoagulation, as well. Effects were consistent across the different subgroups of patients. This trial was registered on the PROPERO database at (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero//display_record.php?ID=CRD42019127870) as #CRD42019127870.

Cancer-Associated Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), which includes portal, mesenteric, and splenic vein thrombosis and the Budd-Chiari syndrome, is an infrequent manifestation of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Like typical site VTE, SVT is also frequently associated with cancer, particularly intra-abdominal solid malignancies and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). The clinical presentation of SVT is nonspecific. Symptoms may be related to the underlying malignancy, and thrombosis is incidentally diagnosed by imaging studies for cancer staging or follow-up in a substantial proportion of cases. The occurrence of SVT predicts worse prognosis in patients with liver or pancreatic cancer and, not uncommonly, SVT may precede the diagnosis of cancer. Therefore, the occurrence of an apparently unprovoked SVT should prompt careful patient evaluation for the presence of an underlying malignancy or MPN. Cancer patients carry a high risk of VTE extension and recurrence and long-term anticoagulant treatment is suggested in the absence of high risk of bleeding. Either LMWH or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are suggested for the treatment of patients with cancer-related SVT, although limited experience is available on the use of DOACs in these settings. Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are suggested for the short and long-term treatment of SVT associated with MPN. This review outlines the epidemiological aspects, pathogenesis, risk factors, and diagnosis of cancer-associated SVT, and addresses questions regarding the management of this challenging condition.

Trends and In-Hospital Outcomes of Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis Associated with Gastrointestinal Malignancies: A Nationwide Analysis

Introduction

Gastrointestinal cancers have a strong association with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), yet the hospitalization data is unknown.

Objective and Methods

We analyzed around 78 million discharges from the 2007-2017 Nationwide Inpatient Sample with an inclusion criterion of adult patients admitted for portal or hepatic vein thrombosis as a primary diagnosis with a gastrointestinal or hepatobiliary malignancy as a secondary diagnosis. The outcomes were in-hospital mortality, complication rates, and resource utilization. Odds ratios (OR) and means were adjusted for confounders using multivariate regression analysis models.

Results

Out of the total 32,324 hospitalizations for SVT, 3,220 (10%) were associated with a GI malignancy, of which hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and pancreatic cancer were the most common. Portal vein thrombosis accounted for 95% of these hospitalizations. Admissions for pancreatic cancer-associated SVT have increased by 7.2 times from 2007 to 2017. Patients with SVT and concomitant GI malignancies were significantly older and had a higher comorbidity score than those with SVT without GI malignancy. Risk of inpatient mortality for SVT patients were significantly higher for patients with gastric cancer (rate: 12.1%, OR 8.6, 95% CI: 1.8-39.7) and HCC (rate: 7.6%, OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.5-4.8) as compared to non-GI malignancy-related SVT. Odds of variceal bleeding were significantly higher for patients with HCC (OR 1.67, 95% CI: 1.2-2.34) than patients without GI malignancy.

Conclusions

Digestive cancer-associated SVTs constitute 10% of all SVT related hospitalizations and are significantly increasing in the past decade. We report the baseline characteristics and predictors of inpatient mortality in this study.

Treatment of portal vein thrombosis: an updated narrative review

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is the most frequent among the splanchnic vein thrombosis, accounting for 90% of cases. More than half of PVT are provoked by liver cirrhosis, solid cancer or myeloproliferative neoplasms. The remaining cases are non-malignant non-cirrhotic PVT and include either unprovoked events or thrombosis secondary to other less common risk factors (e.g. abdominal surgery, intrabdominal inflammations/infections, or hormonal stimuli). Anticoagulant therapy in patients with acute symptomatic PVT should be started early after diagnosis, if no active bleeding, to obtain greater vessel recanalization and reduce the occurrence of portal-hypertension related complications. Gastroesophageal varices do not represent a contraindication to anticoagulant treatment, as long as adequate measures have been undertaken for the prophylaxis of gastroesophageal bleeding. Different treatment options (unfractionated or low molecular weight heparin, vitamin K antagonists and direct oral anticoagulants [DOACs]) can be considered. In this narrative review we will discuss the treatment of PVT in the three most common scenarios (cirrhosis-associated, cancer-associated and non-malignant non-cirrhotic PVT). We will also discuss the role of the DOACs and summarise recent guidelines on this topic.

Splanchnic vein thrombosis: Clinical manifestations, risk factors, management, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Clinical manifestations and optimal management strategies in patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) are not well characterized.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study including all newly diagnosed SVT evaluated between January 2007 and December 2018. Efficacy outcome was thrombosis resolution, and safety outcomes included death and occurrence of bleeding.

RESULTS

We included 155 patients with a mean age of 56.2 (18-87). Local risk factors were present in 118 (76.1%) patients and 30 (19.4%) had only systemic/thrombophilia. Local risk factors included abdominal cancers (31%), surgery (20.6%) and liver cirrhosis (19.4%). Thrombophilia screening was conducted in approximately 50% of patients. Factor V Leiden or Prothrombin G20210A mutations were observed in 7.1% of patients whereas 14.4% were JAK2V617F mutation positive. Most common manifestations at onset were abdominal pain (56.1%), whereas 44.6% were incidentally found. Portal vein thrombosis was observed more in primary cases (91.9% vs. 69.5%, p = 0.012). Anticoagulation was used in 93.5% cases. Indefinite anticoagulation was used more frequently in primary SVT (62.2% vs. 41.5%, p = 0.045). Thrombosis resolution and bleeding complications among primary (without local risk factors) and secondary (with local risk factors) SVT were observed in 48.5%, 65%, 8.1%, and 11.9%, respectively with no difference when comparing patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants or warfarin and/or low molecular weight heparin (58% vs. 62%, p = 0.326, 9% vs. 12%, p = 0.518).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort anticoagulation resulted in partial or complete thrombosis resolution in a significant proportion of patients with an acceptable bleeding risk regardless local risk factors or type of anticoagulant.

Incidence and predictors of splanchnic vein thrombosis and mortality following hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery

BACKGROUND

Intraabdominal surgery is a known risk factor for splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT). SVT incidence, management, and prognosis after hepatopancreatobiliary surgery are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence and prognosis of SVT following hepatopancreatobiliary surgery and describe current practices in anticoagulation for postoperative SVT.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Multicenter retrospective cohort study of adults undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. Multivariable analyses for predictors of SVT, major bleeding, and 90-day mortality were performed.

RESULTS

Of 1815 patients included, 89 (4.9%) had cirrhosis and 1532 (84.4%) had active cancer. The most frequent surgeries were pancreaticoduodenectomy (40.6%), open (30.7%), and laparoscopic (11.0%) liver resection. Sixty (3.3%) patients experienced SVT within 90 days of surgery. Among patients with SVT, 23.3% were symptomatic and 75.0% were treated with therapeutic anticoagulation. Planned duration of anticoagulation averaged 3 to 6 months. By multivariable analysis, SVT predictors were: operative time (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] per hour increase 1.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20-1.46), cirrhosis (aOR 3.22, 95% CI 1.28-8.10), and postoperative intraabdominal infection (aOR 2.99, 95% CI 1.72-5.19). Postoperative major bleeding occurred in 22.1% of patients and 4.0% died within 90 days. Predictors of postoperative mortality were age (aOR per 10-year increase 1.79, 95% CI 1.38-2.30), operative time (aOR 1.31 (1.17-1.45), cirrhosis (aOR 4.42, 95% CI 1.96-9.96), postoperative intraabdominal infection (aOR 2.66, 95% CI 1.55-4.57), postoperative major bleeding (aOR 4.12, 95% CI 2.36-7.30), and postoperative SVT (aOR 3.15, 95% CI 1.42-6.97).

CONCLUSION

SVT occurred in 1 in 30 patients after hepatopancreatobiliary surgery and was associated with a 3-fold independent increase in 90-day mortality.

Direct oral anticoagulants for unusual-site venous thromboembolism

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are currently the preferred oral anticoagulant treatment for most of the patients with deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities and/or pulmonary embolism. DOACs have several advantages over vitamin K antagonists, such as availability of fixed dosages, fewer drug interactions, faster onset of action, shorter half-life, and lower risk of major and intracranial bleeding. Although the evidence on the use of DOACs in patients with unusual-site venous thromboembolism (VTE) is limited to a few, small randomized controlled trials, these drugs are increasingly used in clinical practice, and several observational cohort studies have been published recently. This narrative review will describe the latest evidence for the use of the DOACs in patients with thrombosis in atypical locations (splanchnic, cerebral, upper extremity, ovarian, and renal vein thrombosis) and will provide some practical advice for their use in patients with unusual-site VTE.

Consensus statement of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology on secondary thromboprophylaxis in patients with cancer

Up to 20% of cancer patients will develop some manifestation of venous thromboembolic disease (VTD) during their clinical course. VTD greatly impacts morbidity, mortality, quality of life and pharmaceutical expenditure. In addition, both thrombotic relapse and major haemorrhages derived from VTD treatment are more likely in oncological patients. To make the decision to establish secondary thromboprophylaxis as an indefinite treatment in these patients, it is important to review all the risk factors involved, whether related to the disease, the patient or the prior thrombotic event. The objectives of this consensus of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna-SEMI) and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (Sociedad Española de Oncología Médica-SEOM) are to establish recommendations that help assess the risk of recurrence of VTD and haemorrhagic risk in patients with cancer, as well as to analyse the evidence that exists on the currently available drugs, which will allow the establishment of a protocol for shared decision-making with the informed patient.

Treatment of unusual thrombotic manifestations

Venous thrombosis rarely occurs at unusual sites such as cerebral, splanchnic, upper-extremity, renal, ovarian, or retinal veins. Clinical features, symptoms, and risk factors of rare thrombotic manifestations are heterogeneous and in large part differ from those typical of the commonest manifestations of venous thrombosis at the lower extremities. The therapeutic approach also varies widely according to the affected site, whether cerebral, abdominal, or extraabdominal. To date, anticoagulant therapy for thrombosis at unusual sites is generally accepted, but the optimal therapeutic approach remains challenging. This review is focused on the treatment of unusual thrombotic manifestations as reported in the most recent guidelines and according to the updated scientific literature.

Cerebral and Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: Advances, Challenges, and Unanswered Questions

Cerebral vein thrombosis (CVT) and splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) are two manifestations of venous thromboembolism (VTE) at unusual sites. They have an incidence at least 25-50 times lower than usual site VTE, but represent true clinical challenges. Recent evidence on the epidemiology, risk factors, prognosis, and treatment of CVT and SVT has been published in the last two decades, thus contributing to a better understanding of these diseases. The improvement in imaging techniques and a higher degree of clinical suspicion may have led to the observed increased frequency, whereas a better knowledge of provoking mechanisms could have contributed to reducing the proportion of events classified as unprovoked or idiopathic (13%-21% of CVT, 15%-27% of SVT). Few small randomized clinical trials and a number of observational studies, although hampered by heterogeneous therapeutic approaches, shed light on the safety and effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy in these populations. However, there are still some grey areas that warrant future research. In this narrative review, we discuss recent advances and therapeutic challenges in CVT and SVT.

SEOM clinical guideline of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and cancer (2019)

In 2011, the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) first published a clinical guideline of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and cancer. This guideline was updated in 2014, and since then, multiple studies and clinical trials have changed the landscape of the treatment and prophylaxis of VTE in cancer patients. To incorporate the most recent evidence, including data from direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) randomized clinical trials, SEOM presents a new update of the guideline.

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: Current Perspectives

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) including portal, mesenteric, splenic vein thrombosis and the Budd-Chiari syndrome, is a manifestation of unusual site venous thromboembolism. SVT presents with a lower incidence than deep vein thrombosis of the lower limbs and pulmonary embolism, with portal vein thrombosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome being respectively the most and the least common presentations of SVT. SVT is classified as provoked if secondary to a local or systemic risk factor, or unprovoked if the causative trigger cannot be identified. Diagnostic evaluation is often affected by the lack of specificity of clinical manifestations: the presence of one or more risk factors in a patient with a high clinical suspicion may suggest the execution of diagnostic tests. Doppler ultrasonography represents the first line diagnostic tool because of its accuracy and wide availability. Further investigations, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiography, should be executed in case of suspected thrombosis of the mesenteric veins, suspicion of SVT-related complications, or to complete information after Doppler ultrasonography. Once SVT diagnosis is established, a careful patient evaluation should be performed in order to assess the risks and benefits of the anticoagulant therapy and to drive the optimal treatment intensity. Due to the low quality and large heterogeneity of published data, guidance documents and expert opinion could direct therapeutic decision, suggesting which patients to treat, which anticoagulant to use and the duration of treatment.

Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis and Treatment in Patients With Cancer: ASCO Clinical Practice Guideline Update

PURPOSE

To provide updated recommendations about prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with cancer.

METHODS

PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses of RCTs published from August 1, 2014, through December 4, 2018. ASCO convened an Expert Panel to review the evidence and revise previous recommendations as needed.

RESULTS

The systematic review included 35 publications on VTE prophylaxis and treatment and 18 publications on VTE risk assessment. Two RCTs of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for the treatment of VTE in patients with cancer reported that edoxaban and rivaroxaban are effective but are linked with a higher risk of bleeding compared with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in patients with GI and potentially genitourinary cancers. Two additional RCTs reported on DOACs for thromboprophylaxis in ambulatory patients with cancer at increased risk of VTE.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Changes to previous recommendations: Clinicians may offer thromboprophylaxis with apixaban, rivaroxaban, or LMWH to selected high-risk outpatients with cancer; rivaroxaban and edoxaban have been added as options for VTE treatment; patients with brain metastases are now addressed in the VTE treatment section; and the recommendation regarding long-term postoperative LMWH has been expanded. Re-affirmed recommendations: Most hospitalized patients with cancer and an acute medical condition require thromboprophylaxis throughout hospitalization. Thromboprophylaxis is not routinely recommended for all outpatients with cancer. Patients undergoing major cancer surgery should receive prophylaxis starting before surgery and continuing for at least 7 to 10 days. Patients with cancer should be periodically assessed for VTE risk, and oncology professionals should provide patient education about the signs and symptoms of VTE.Additional information is available at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines.

Position paper of the Italian Society of Internal Medicine (SIMI) on prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer

Cancer patients are at high risk of developing thrombotic events, including venous thromboembolism (VTE) [deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)], and arterial thrombosis. DVT and PE represent the second leading cause of death in cancer patients; moreover, the development of thromboembolic events in cancer patients is linked to a greater need of hospitalization and frequency of side effects during treatment, in particular bleeding, and to an increased risk of recurrence during and following antithrombotic therapy. The thromboembolic risk may be different in different subgroups of cancer population, being highest in patients with metastatic disease, patients with pancreas, stomach, kidney or primary brain cancer, or during therapeutic interventions or surgery. This document focuses on several relevant topics including the epidemiology and pathogenesis of cancer-associated VTE, the current and future strategies of primary prevention and anticoagulant treatment, and the management of bleeding complications. The main literature data are discussed in detail, including, when available, evidence from randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses, international guidelines statements, the results of recently published trials comparing direct oral anticoagulants to low molecular weight heparin, and the design and aims of ongoing trials on prevention/treatment of cancer-associated VTE.

Splanchnic venous thrombosis in JAK2 V617F mutation positive myeloproliferative neoplasms - long term follow-up of a regional case series

Background

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis (SVT) is strongly associated with underlying JAK2 V617F positive myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN).

Methods

Patients attending the tertiary haematology service in Northern Ireland with SVT and underlying JAK2 V617F MPN were identified by consultant staff. A retrospective audit was undertaken to examine therapeutic interventions and relevant outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used for qualitative data whilst students t-test allowed comparison of quantitative data.

Results

We report on the medium to long term follow-up of fourteen patients presenting with SVT on the basis of JAK2 V617F positive MPN. Females comprised 78.5% of the patients and there was an average age of 47.3 years at time of diagnosis. There was significant morbidity evident at diagnosis with liver transplantation attempted in all patients with Budd Chiari (n = 3), oesophageal varices present in 57.1%, ascites present in 42.8% and splenomegaly evident in 71.4%. 42.8% of patients did not exhibit classical phenotypic blood count findings for MPN at time of diagnosis. Over a median follow-up of 88.5 months (range = 8-211 months) recurrence of SVT was only documented in the setting of interventional liver procedure. Major haemorrhagic complications were recorded in 35.7% of patients and there was an association with dual anticoagulation and antiplatelet use. Recurrent thrombosis outside of the splanchnic venous system occurred in 28.5% of patients, predominantly occurring off therapeutic anticoagulation. No deaths were recorded and one transformation to myelofibrosis was seen during follow-up. Cytoreduction therapies were routinely used but had a high discontinuation rate due to cytopenias and intolerance.

Conclusion

This analysis highlights the complexities of management of this group of patients over a period of long follow-up with a focus on the evidence behind therapeutic options.

Management of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer

Current guidelines for anticoagulant therapy do not so far suggest any form of differentiated approach to cancer patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE). This review article provides an overview of the published literature in cancer patients with VTE, mostly using data from the RIETE registry. Our findings provide some insights into what factors may be used to guide physicians in adapting recommended anticoagulant regimens to the individual patient, as oncologists are increasingly doing with cancer treatments. For instance, patients presenting with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) alone might benefit from curtailing treatment intensity as anticoagulant therapy progresses. The site of cancer also needs to be considered. In patients with incidental PE or splanchnic vein thrombosis, we should be more cautious before prescribing anticoagulant therapy. The optimal duration of anticoagulant therapy is unknown.

Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: Beyond Clinical Practice Guidelines-A Multidisciplinary (SEMI-SEOM-SETH) Expert Consensus

Despite the growing interest and improved knowledge about venous thromboembolism in cancer patients in the last years, there are still many unsolved issues. Due to the limitations of the available literature, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines are not able to give solid recommendations for challenging scenarios often present in the setting of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT). A multidisciplinary expert panel from three scientific societies—Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI), Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM), and Spanish Society Thrombosis and Haemostasis (SETH)—agreed on 12 controversial questions regarding prevention and management of CAT, which were thoroughly reviewed to provide further guidance. The suggestions presented herein may facilitate clinical decisions in specific complex circumstances, until these can be made leaning on reliable scientific evidence.