Venous thromboembolism and survival in patients with high-grade glioma

Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Glioblastoma: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Implications

Patients with glioblastoma are among the cancer patients with the highest risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). Long-term thromboprophylaxis is not generally prescribed because of the increased susceptibility of glioblastoma patients to intracranial hemorrhage. This review provides an overview of the current clinical standard for glioblastoma patients, as well as the molecular and genetic background which underlies the high incidence of VTE. The two main procoagulant proteins involved in glioblastoma-related VTE, podoplanin and tissue factor, are described, in addition to the genetic aberrations that can be linked to a hypercoagulable state in glioblastoma. Furthermore, possible novel biomarkers and future treatment strategies are discussed, along with the potential of sequencing approaches toward personalized risk prediction for VTE. A glioblastoma-specific VTE risk stratification model may help identifying those patients in which the increased risk of bleeding due to extended anticoagulation is outweighed by the decreased risk of VTE.

Duplex Ultrasound Screening for Deep Venous Thrombosis in Patients Undergoing Craniotomy for Intracranial Tumors: A Single Institutional Series

OBJECTIVE

The frequency of duplex ultrasound screening (DUS) for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with brain tumors undergoing craniotomy is center-specific. We evaluated clinical conditions that increase the tendency to perform DUS, focusing on tumor type.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective analysis to assess the association of intracranial tumor type with DVT as a major decision-making indicator for DUS. A primary analysis investigated the association between tumor pathology and preoperative DVT, and a secondary analysis investigated the development of DVT postoperatively. Confounding factors were defined and included in both analyses.

RESULTS

Among 1478 patients, 751 had preoperative DUS and 35 (5%) had DVT. No significant difference in the odds of preoperative DVT was observed between patients having malignant glioma versus benign tumors (odds ratio [OR; 95% CI]: 1.68 [0.65, 4.35], P = 0.29), or metastatic tumors versus benign tumors (OR: 2.10; 95% CI: 0.75-5.89; P = 0.16). Among patients with negative preoperative DUS, 93 underwent postoperative evaluation and 20 (22%) were diagnosed with postoperative DVT. Malignant glioma or (OR: 1.69; 95% CI: 0.36-7.84; P = 0.50) metastatic tumors (OR: 1.84; 95% CI: 0.29-11.5; P = 0.52) were not associated with postoperative DVT versus benign tumors.

CONCLUSION

Brain tumor pathology may not increase the risk for DVT and may not be a good indicator for the selection of patients for DVT screening with DUS. The incidence of DVT in selective preoperative DUS was similar to studies that performed DUS on all patients. Further studies across multiple institutions are needed to develop criteria for DUS in brain tumor surgery.

Expanding the Role of Heparin Derivatives in Oncology: From Anticoagulation to Antitumor Activity

Current research demonstrates the expanding therapeutic potential of heparin derivatives in oncology, extending beyond traditional anticoagulation mechanisms. This systematic analysis examines the structural characteristics, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of heparin-based compounds in malignancy treatment. The essential antithrombin binding pentasaccharide sequence has enabled development of specialized molecular variants, particularly fractionated heparins and their non-anticoagulant counterparts. These agents exert antineoplastic effects via multiple pathways, particularly through modulation of heparanase enzymatic activity and specific protein-glycosaminoglycan interactions. Evidence from pivotal clinical trials (FRAGMATIC, MAGNOLIA, GASTRANOX) confirms efficacy in managing cancer-associated thrombosis while indicating potential enhancement of chemotherapeutic outcomes. The preparation methods utilize enzymatic cleavage reactions and selective chemical derivatization to generate structurally modified heparins exhibiting unique molecular characteristics and biological activities. Analysis of the glycosaminoglycan analog dociparstat sodium reveals significant activity in myeloid malignancies, mediated by specific interference with CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling cascades. Significant challenges remain in manufacturing scale-up, analytical validation, and long-term safety assessment. Future studies must address dose optimization, combination strategies, and controlled clinical trials to determine the full therapeutic potential of these compounds in clinical oncology.

Glioblastoma Cells Express and Secrete Alternatively Spliced Transcripts of Coagulation Factor X

Background: Patients with cancer often develop a prothrombotic state that can evolve into venous and arterial thrombosis, which is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most frequently associated with thrombosis, but the underlying causes of this prothrombotic state are poorly defined. Objectives: We designed a study to characterize the expression of coagulation factor X (FX) and its alternatively spliced transcripts in glioblastoma tissues surgically removed from patients and in clonal cell lines. Methods: The F10 mRNA and FX protein were quantified in tissues surgically removed from seven patients with glioblastoma (glioma grade 3-4) and those from non-tumor patients. Glioblastoma cells from three human clonal lines were examined for the expression and secretion of FX at baseline and after the cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or subjected to oxygen/glucose starvation in culture. PCR products were subjected to Sanger sequencing and amplicon sequencing to identify F10 isoforms and their ratios. A chromogenic assay was performed to assess FX activity. Results: Glioblastoma tissue and cell lines expressed high levels of the full-length and an alternatively spliced F10 mRNA. The latter produced a C-terminal truncated FX. The ratio of full-length to truncated F10 transcripts was significantly higher in normal brain tissues than in glioblastoma tissue. In cultured cells from the glioblastoma cell lines, FX was secreted to the conditioned medium and was active in cleaving a chemical substrate. The FX expression and secretion were upregulated in cells stimulated with LPS or subjected to oxygen/glucose starvation. Discussion: Glioblastoma cells synthesize and secrete FX that was active in promoting thrombin generation. These findings provide a new underlying mechanism to explain why glioblastoma patients are prone to developing thrombosis.

Clotting Promotes Glioma Growth and Infiltration Through Activation of Focal Adhesion Kinase

SIGNIFICANCE

High-grade gliomas are associated with intratumoral thrombosis, tumor cell necrosis, and hemorrhage. The resulting blood clot serves as an adhesive matrix for glioma cell integrins that activate FAK. Knocking down FAK with CRISPR cas9, on the other hand, is highly effective at halting GBM growth in mice.

The risk of venous thromboembolism in adult patients with diffuse glioma: a nationwide population-based study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a cause of increased morbidity and risk of death. Studies report VTE in up to 30% of glioma patients but the results vary. The VTE risk is relevant when evaluating prophylaxis to avoid unnecessary bleeding or overdiagnosis. This study examines the VTE incidence in patients with glioma WHO grade 2-4, and when VTE occurred, risk factors, and overall survival (OS) for patients with WHO grade 4.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total 3,630 patients with WHO grade 2 (n = 230), grade 3 (n = 317), and grade 4 (n = 3,083) gliomas from 2010 to 2018 were identified using the Danish Neuro-Oncology Registry. VTE diagnoses and time of death were obtained from Statistics Denmark.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION

The VTE incidence was 5.2, 6.3, and 6.8% in patients with WHO grade 2, 3, and 4 gliomas, respectively. The VTE incidence rate was highest during the first 3 months after the diagnosis with 53 events. Increasing age (HR 1.03, 95%CI 1.01-1.04), male sex (HR 1.47, 95%CI 1.09-1.99), poor performance status (HR 1.57, 95%CI 1.10-2.25), and post-operative long-course radiochemotherapy (HR 2.10, 95%CI 1.19-3.72) were predictors of VTE in patients with glioma WHO grade 4. There was no difference in OS comparing patients having VTE to those without (p = 0.068). In conclusion, patients with glioma WHO grade 2-4 were at high risk of VTE, especially the first 3 months after diagnosis. Increasing age, male sex, poor performance status, and long-course radiochemotherapy were associated with increased risk of VTE in patients with glioma WHO grade 4.

How I treat acute venous thromboembolism in patients with brain tumors

ABSTRACT

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients with brain tumors. The management of acute VTE is particularly challenging due to an elevated risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Risk of developing ICH on anticoagulation is influenced by a number of factors including tumor type, recent surgery, concomitant medications, platelet counts, and radiographic features. In patients with a heightened risk for ICH, the benefits of anticoagulation need to be balanced against a likelihood of developing major hemorrhagic complications. Management decisions include whether to administer anticoagulation, at what dose, placement of an inferior vena cava filter, monitoring for development of hemorrhage or progressive thrombus, and escalation of anticoagulant dose. This article discusses the complexities of treating acute VTE in patients with brain tumors and outlines treatment algorithms based on the presence or absence of ICH at the time of VTE diagnosis. Through case-based scenarios, we illustrate our approach to anticoagulation, emphasizing individualized risk assessments and evidence-based practices to optimize treatment outcomes while minimizing the risks of hemorrhagic events in patients with brain tumors.

Postoperative Acute Intracranial Hemorrhage and Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Brain Metastases Receiving Acetylsalicylic Acid Perioperatively

Cranial operations are associated with a high risk of postoperative intracranial hemorrhage (pICH) and venous thromboembolic events, along with increased mortality and morbidity. With the use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for prophylaxis becoming more prevalent, the risk of bleeding when ASA is administered preoperatively is unknown, as are the effects of discontinuation upon the occurrence of thromboembolic events, especially in societies with aging demographics. To address these questions, a retrospective analysis was performed using medical records and radiological images of 1862 patients subjected to brain tumor surgery over a decade in our department. The risk of pICH was compared in patients with metastases receiving ASA treatment versus patients not receiving ASA treatment. The occurrence of venous thromboembolic events after surgery was also evaluated. The study group consisted of 365 patients with different types of brain metastases. In total, 20 patients suffered pICH and 7 of these were associated with clinical neurological deterioration postoperatively. Of the 58 patients who took ASA preoperatively, 2 patients experienced pICH, compared with 5 patients in the non-ASA impact group (p = 0.120). Patients who took ASA were not at significantly higher risk of pICH and therefore a worse outcome compared to the group without ASA. Therefore, these data suggest that in patients at high cardiovascular risk, ASA can be safely continued during elective brain tumor surgery.

Clinical and Genomic Predictors of Adverse Events in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma

PURPOSE

Adverse clinical events cause significant morbidity in patients with GBM (GBM). We examined whether genomic alterations were associated with AE (AE) in patients with GBM.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We identified adults with histologically confirmed IDH-wild-type GBM with targeted next-generation sequencing (OncoPanel) at Dana Farber Cancer Institute from 2013 to 2019. Seizure at presentation, lymphopenia, thromboembolic events, pseudoprogression, and early progression (within 6 months of diagnosis) were identified as AE. The biologic function of genetic variants was categorized as loss-of-function (LoF), no change in function, or gain-of-function (GoF) using a somatic tumor mutation knowledge base (OncoKB) and consensus protein function predictions. Associations between functional genomic alterations and AE were examined using univariate logistic regressions and multivariable regressions adjusted for additional clinical predictors.

RESULTS

Our study included 470 patients diagnosed with GBM who met the study criteria. We focused on 105 genes that had sequencing data available for ≥ 90% of the patients and were altered in ≥10% of the cohort. Following false-discovery rate (FDR) correction and multivariable adjustment, the TP53, RB1, IGF1R, and DIS3 LoF alterations were associated with lower odds of seizures, while EGFR, SMARCA4, GNA11, BRD4, and TCF3 GoF and SETD2 LoF alterations were associated with higher odds of seizures. For all other AE of interest, no significant associations were found with genomic alterations following FDR correction.

CONCLUSIONS

Genomic biomarkers based on functional variant analysis of a routine clinical panel may help identify AE in GBM, particularly seizures. Identifying these risk factors could improve the management of patients through better supportive care and consideration of prophylactic therapies.

Prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of venous thromboembolism in patients with brain tumor undergoing craniotomy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Brain tumor patients undergoing craniotomy are significantly associated with the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE), while the contributing factors remains controversial. Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for VTE in postoperational brain tumor patients.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases from their inception to July 2023. Article selection, data extraction, and study quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's and Begg's tests. Stata 15.0 software was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 25 studies were considered, with a total of 49,620 brain tumor individuals. The pooled prevalence of VTE during hospitalization in postoperational brain tumor patients was 9% [95% CI: (0.08, 0.10)]. Moreover, our results demonstrated that patients with VTE were older than those without VTE [mean difference [MD] = 8.14, 95% CI: (4.97, 11.30)]. The following variables were significantly associated with VTE: prior history of VTE [OR = 7.81, 95% CI: (3.62, 16.88)], congestive heart failure [OR = 2.33, 95% CI: (1.08-5.05)], diabetes [OR = 1.87, 95% CI: (1.12-3.10)], hypertension [OR = 1.27, 95% CI: (1.07-1.50)], steroid use [OR = 1.63, 95% CI: (1.41, 1.88)], high white blood cells counts [MD = 0.32, 95% CI: (0.01, 0.63)], and high fibrinogen levels [MD = 0.19, 95% CI: (0.08, 0.30)].

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis identified risk factors for postoperational VTE in patients with brain tumor, which can serve as a theoretical foundation for medical staff to manage and treat VTE.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

CRD42023357459.

The risk and burden of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events in patients with malignant gliomas receiving bevacizumab

PURPOSE

Bevacizumab has evolved as an integral treatment option for patients with high-grade gliomas. Little is known about clinical risk factors that predispose patients with high-grade gliomas receiving bevacizumab to VTE or ICH. We sought to characterize the clinical risk factors associated with risk of either event.

METHODS

In this multi-institutional retrospective study, we first evaluated patients with high-grade gliomas who were treated with bevacizumab at University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center from 2015-2021. We compared clinical and treatment-related factors among three cohorts: those who developed VTE, ICH, or neither. We further compared survival outcomes of these patients from the time of bevacizumab initiation. Then to further confirm our results in a non-cancer center hospital setting we evaluated patients from two Ascension Seton Hospitals in Austin, Texas which are affiliated with Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin from 2017-2022.

RESULTS

We found that the presence of cerebral macrobleeding, defined as a magnetic susceptibility of > 1 cm3 on magnetic resonance imaging, was highly associated with risk of developing ICH after initiation of bevacizumab. Development of ICH was significantly associated with poorer survival outcomes. We did not find a statistically significant effect of VTE on survival after bevacizumab initiation.

CONCLUSION

In order to stratify the risk for developing ICH before the initiation of bevacizumab, we recommend to assess for the presence of cerebral macrobleeding as it is associated with ICH development.

The surgical management of diffuse gliomas: Current state of neurosurgical management and future directions

After recent updates to the World Health Organization pathological criteria for diagnosing and grading diffuse gliomas, all major North American and European neuro-oncology societies recommend a maximal safe resection as the initial management of a diffuse glioma. For neurosurgeons to achieve this goal, the surgical plan for both low- and high-grade gliomas should be to perform a supramaximal resection when feasible based on preoperative imaging and the patient's performance status, utilizing every intraoperative adjunct to minimize postoperative neurological deficits. While the surgical approach and technique can vary, every effort must be taken to identify and preserve functional cortical and subcortical regions. In this summary statement on the current state of the field, we describe the tools and technologies that facilitate the safe removal of diffuse gliomas and highlight intraoperative and postoperative management strategies to minimize complications for these patients. Moreover, we discuss how surgical resections can go beyond cytoreduction by facilitating biological discoveries and improving the local delivery of adjuvant chemo- and radiotherapies.

Effects of ulinastatin therapy in deep vein thrombosis prevention after brain tumor surgery: A single-center randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common neurosurgical complication after brain tumor resection, and its prophylaxis has been widely studied. There are no effective drugs in the clinical management of venous thromboembolism, and there is an absence of evidence-based medicine concerning the treatment of severe multiple traumas.

AIM

To explore whether ulinastatin (UTI) can prevent VTE after brain tumor resection.

METHODS

The present research included patients who underwent brain tumor resection. Patients received UTIs (400,000 IU) or placebos utilizing computer-based random sequencing (in a 1:1 ratio). The primary outcome measures were the incidence of VTE, coagulation function, pulmonary emboli, liver function, renal function, and drug-related adverse effects.

RESULTS

A total of 405 patients were evaluated between January 2019 and December 2021, and 361 of these were initially enrolled in the study to form intention-to-treat, which was given UTI (n = 180) or placebo (n = 181) treatment in a random manner. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline clinical data between the two groups. The incidence of VTE in the UTI group was remarkably improved compared with that in the placebo group. UTI can improve coagulation dysfunction, pulmonary emboli, liver function, and renal function. No significant difference was identified between the two groups in the side effects of UTI-induced diarrhea, vomiting, hospital stays, or hospitalization costs. The incidence of allergies was higher in the UTI group than in the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

The findings from the present research indicated that UTI can decrease the incidence of VTE and clinical outcomes of patients after brain tumor resection and has fewer adverse reactions.

Epidemiology, biology, and management of venous thromboembolism in gliomas: An interdisciplinary review

Patients with diffuse glioma are at high risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE) over the course of the disease, with up to 30% incidence in patients with glioblastoma (GBM) and a lower but nonnegligible risk in lower-grade gliomas. Recent and ongoing efforts to identify clinical and laboratory biomarkers of patients at increased risk offer promise, but to date, there is no proven role for prophylaxis outside of the perioperative period. Emerging data suggest a higher risk of VTE in patients with isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioma and the potential mechanistic role of IDH mutation in the suppression of production of the procoagulants tissue factor and podoplanin. According to published guidelines, therapeutic anticoagulation with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or alternatively, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients without increased risk of gastrointestinal or genitourinary bleeding is recommended for VTE treatment. Due to the elevated risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in GBM, anticoagulation treatment remains challenging and at times fraught. There are conflicting data on the risk of ICH with LMWH in patients with glioma; small retrospective studies suggest DOACs may convey lower ICH risk than LMWH. Investigational anticoagulants that prevent thrombosis without impairing hemostasis, such as factor XI inhibitors, may carry a better therapeutic index and are expected to enter clinical trials for cancer-associated thrombosis.

The Role of EGFR Amplification in Deep Venous Thrombosis Occurrence in IDH Wild-Type Glioblastoma

Introduction: Glioblastoma (GBM) patients have a 20-30 incidence of venous thromboembolic events. EGFR is a widely used prognostic marker for many cancers. Recent lung cancer studies have described relationships between EGFR amplification and an increased incidence of thromboembolic complications. We aim to explore this relationship in glioblastoma patients. Methods: Two hundred ninety-three consecutive patients with IDH wild-type GBM were included in the analysis. The amplification status of EGFR was measured using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Centromere 7 (CEP7) expression was recorded to calculate the EGFR-to-CEP7 ratio. All data were collected retrospectively through chart review. Molecular data were obtained through the surgical pathology report at the time of biopsy. Results: There were 112 subjects who were EGFR-amplified (38.2%) and 181 who were non-amplified (61.8%). EGFR amplification status was not significantly correlated with VTE risk overall (p = 0.2001). There was no statistically significant association between VTE and EGFR status after controlling for Bevacizumab therapy (p = 0.1626). EGFR non-amplified status was associated with an increased VTE risk in subjects greater than 60 years of age (p = 0.048). Conclusions: There was no significant difference in occurrence of VTE in patients with glioblastoma, regardless of EGFR amplification status. Patients older than 60 years of age with EGFR amplification experienced a lower rate of VTE, contrary to some reports on non-small-cell lung cancer linking EGFR amplification to VTE risk.

A nomogram model to predict the acute venous thromboembolism risk after surgery in patients with glioma

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication for glioma patients, with an incidence rate of about 20 %. The purpose of this study was to explore the risk factors of acute VTE after glioma surgery, which may provide an essential reference for clinical guidance on the prevention of acute VTE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 435 patients who underwent glioma surgery from 2012 to 2021 were included in this study. Duplex ultrasonography was performed routinely 3-5 days after the surgery to define VTE. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the independent predictor of acute VTE after glioma surgery and use these selected risk factors to construct and validate a nomogram.

RESULTS

Several risk factors for predicting acute VTE after glioma surgery were identified and used to build the nomogram: age, operation time, systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. The area under the curve of the nomogram was 0.834, indicating good discrimination. Hosmer-Lemeshow of the calibration curve was 3.05 (P = 0.98), showing a high degree of agreement between the prediction and actual outcome. Decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram model was helpful when the incidence of VTE was 5-80 %.

CONCLUSIONS

A nomogram to predict acute VTE after glioma surgery was constructed and validated. Clinicians can use this predictive model to achieve risk assessment and take different treatment measures to prevent acute postoperative VTE and improve patients' quality of life effectively.

Incidence and determinants of thrombotic and bleeding complications in patients with glioblastoma

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma patients are considered to be at high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and major bleeding (MB), although reliable incidence estimates are lacking. Moreover, the risk of arterial thromboembolism (ATE) in these patients is largely unknown. Our aim was to assess the cumulative incidence, predictors, and prognostic impact of VTE, ATE, and MB on subsequent complications and mortality.

METHODS

Cohort study of 967 consecutive patients diagnosed with glioblastoma between 2004-2020 in two hospitals. Patients were followed from 6 months before date of histopathological glioblastoma diagnosis up to 2 years after, or until an outcome of interest (VTE, ATE, and MB) or death occurred, depending on the analysis. Cumulative incidences were estimated with death as competing risk. Cox regression was used to identify predictors and the prognostic impact.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients were diagnosed with VTE, 50 with ATE, and 126 with MB during a median follow-up of 15 months (interquartile range 9.0-22). The adjusted 1-year cumulative incidence of VTE was 7.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.9-9.3), of ATE 4.1% (95% CI 3.0-5.6), and of MB 12% (95% CI 9.6-14). Older age, type of surgery, and performance status were predictors of VTE. Incident VTE during follow-up was associated with MB (adjusted HR 4.7, 95% CI 2.5-9.0). MB and VTE were associated with mortality (adjusted HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.3-2.1 and 1.3, 95% CI 1.0-1.7, respectively).

CONCLUSION

We found considerable incidences of VTE and MB in glioblastoma patients, with both complications associated with poorer prognosis. Our observations emphasize the need for prospective studies to determine optimal thromboprophylaxis and VTE treatment strategy in these patients.

Combined analysis of clinical and laboratory markers to predict the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with IDH1 wild-type glioblastoma

PURPOSE

We have combined analysis of clinical and laboratory markers to try to find an optimal model to predict venous thromboembolism in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) wild-type glioblastoma (GBM) by a prospective research.

METHODS

Patients with newly histologically confirmed IDH1 wild-type (IDH1wt) GBM were recruited for this study. Status of IDH1, PTEN, P53, BRAF, MGMT promoter methylation (MGMTp), and TERT promoter (TERTp) was determined using genetic sequencing through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Amplification of EGFR was established through fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Competing risk regression model was performed to calculate the risk of VTE. Clinical and laboratory parameters that were independently predicted risk of VTE were used to develop a risk assessment model (RAM).

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-one patients with IDH1wt GBM were included in the present analysis. A total of 48/131 patients (36.6%) developed VTE. D-dimer, ECOG score, and EGFR amplification were suggested to be significantly associated with the VTE risk in multivariable analysis. High ECOG score (>2), high D-dimer (>1.6 μg/ml), and EGFR amplification were used as the strongest independent predictors of increased risk of VTE. The cumulative incidence of VTE was 17.2% for patients with score 0 (n =29), 23.6% for patients with score 1 (n =55), and 63.8% for patients with score 2 (n = 35) or score 3 (n = 12) by application of a RAM.

CONCLUSIONS

In IDH1wt GBM patients, by applying a VTE risk assessment model, we could identify patients with a very high and low risk of VTE.

Venous Thrombotic Events and Anticoagulation in Brain Tumor Patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Brain tumor patients have a 20-30% risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), with management complicated by risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Here we review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and recommended management of VTE in brain tumors.

RECENT FINDINGS

New risk factors and molecular mechanisms of VTE in brain tumor patients have emerged, including the protective effect of IDH mutation in gliomas and the potential role of podoplanin-mediated platelet aggregation in thrombogenesis in these tumors. Recent studies show that the risk of ICH is not significantly higher in brain tumor patients receiving anticoagulation. Based on systemic cancer trials, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) may be a suitable alternative to traditional heparin treatment, but the applicability of these findings to brain tumors is unclear. Anticoagulation is indicated in the treatment of VTE for brain tumor patients, and appears to be reasonably safe; based on retrospective evidence, DOACs may be a reasonable agent.

Incidence, and preoperative and intraoperative prognostic factors of deep venous thrombosis in patients with glioma following craniotomy

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the preoperative and intraoperative risk factors associated with DVT in glioma patients METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of data obtained from glioma patients at Sanbo Hospital (Beijing, China) between 2018 and 2021. Symptomatic DVT was confirmed by Doppler ultrasonography. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify preoperative and intraoperative characteristics associated with DVT. Basic clinical variables and laboratory results were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 492 glioma patients were included. Of these, 73 (14.84%) developed DVT, and three (0.61%) developed DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE). Multivariate analyses revealed that the following factors were highly predictive of post-operative DVT: older age ranges of 46--55 years (odds ratio [OR]: 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41--6.13; p = 0.004), 56--65 years (OR: 7.86; 95% CI: 3.63--17.03; p < 0.001), and > 65 years (OR: 4.94; 95% CI: 1.83--13.33; p = 0.002); partial thromboplastin time (APTT; OR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.84--1.00; p = 0.040); D-dimer (OR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.28--3.82; p = 0.005); and surgery duration (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 1.6 --5.07; p < 0.001) CONCLUSIONS: Older age, preoperative APTT, D-dimer, and surgery duration independently increased the risk of developing postoperative DVT. These findings may facilitate the development of a thrombosis risk score that will allow physicians to develop individualized strategies to prevent DVT as early as possible.

Neurological Complications of Pulmonary Embolism: a Literature Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The present review discusses in-depth about neurological complications following acute venous thromboembolism (VTE).

RECENT FINDINGS

Intracranial hemorrhage, acute ischemic cerebrovascular events, and VTE in brain tumors are described as central nervous system (CNS) complications of PE, while peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain are reported as peripheral nervous system (PNS) sequelae of PE. Syncope and seizure are illustrated as atypical neurological presentations of PE. Mounting evidence suggests higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with neurological diseases, but data on reverse, i.e., neurological sequelae following VTE, is underexplored. The present review is an attempt to explore some of the latter issues categorized into CNS, PNS, and atypical complications following VTE.

Unfractionated Heparin TID Dosing Regimen Is Associated With a Lower Rate of Pulmonary Embolism When Compared With BID Dosing in Patients Undergoing Craniotomy

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) may complicate the post-operative course of patients undergoing craniotomy. While prophylaxis with unfractionated heparin (UFH) has been shown to reduce VTE rates, twice-daily (BID) and three-times-daily (TID) UFH dosing regimens have not been compared in neurosurgical procedures. The objective of this study was to explore the association between UFH dosing regimen and rates of VTE and ICH in craniotomy patients.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted for 159 patients at Northwestern University receiving 5000 units/0.5 mL UFH injections either BID (n = 132) or TID (n = 27). General linear regression models were run to predict rates of DVT, PE, and reoperation due to bleeding from UFH dosing regimen while controlling for age at surgery, sex, VTE history, craniotomy for tumor resection, surgery duration, length of stay, reoperation, infections, and IDH/MGMT mutations.

RESULTS

Receiving UFH TID was significantly associated with a lower rate of PE when compared with receiving UFH BID (β = -0.121, P = 0.044; TID rate = 0%, BID rate = 10.6%). UFH TID also showed a trend toward lower rates of DVT (β = -0.0893, P = 0.295; TID rate = 18.5%, BID rate = 21.2%) when compared with UFH BID. UFH TID showed no significant difference in rate of reoperation for bleeding when compared to UFH BID (β = -0.00623, P = 0.725; TID rate = 0%, BID rate = 0.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

UFH TID dosing is associated with lower rates of PE when compared with BID dosing in patients undergoing craniotomy.

Contrasts in Glioblastoma-Venous Thromboembolism versus Bleeding Risk

Glioblastoma is among the tumor entities with an extreme thrombogenic potential and patients are at very high risk of developing a venous thromboembolism (VTE) over the course of the disease, with an incidence of up to 30% per year. Major efforts are currently being made to understand and gain novel insights into the underlying pathomechanisms of the development of VTE in patients with glioblastoma and to find appropriate biomarkers. Yet, patients with glioblastoma not only face a high thromboembolic risk but are also at risk of bleeding events. In the case of VTE, a therapeutic anticoagulation with low molecular weight heparin or, in the case of low bleeding risk, treatment with a direct oral anticoagulant, is recommended, according to recently published guidelines. With respect to an elevated bleeding risk in glioblastoma patients, therapeutic anticoagulation remains challenging in this patient group and prospective data for this vulnerable patient group are scarce, particularly with regard to direct oral anticoagulants.

Seizures, Edema, Thrombosis, and Hemorrhages: An Update Review on the Medical Management of Gliomas

Patients affected with gliomas develop a complex set of clinical manifestations that deeply impact on quality of life and overall survival. Brain tumor-related epilepsy is frequently the first manifestation of gliomas or may occur during the course of disease; the underlying mechanisms have not been fully explained and depend on both patient and tumor factors. Novel treatment options derive from the growing use of third-generation antiepileptic drugs. Vasogenic edema and elevated intracranial pressure cause a considerable burden of symptoms, especially in high-grade glioma, requiring an adequate use of corticosteroids. Patients with gliomas present with an elevated risk of tumor-associated venous thromboembolism whose prophylaxis and treatment are challenging, considering also the availability of new oral anticoagulant drugs. Moreover, intracerebral hemorrhages can complicate the course of the illness both due to tumor-specific characteristics, patient comorbidities, and side effects of antithrombotic and antitumoral therapies. This paper aims to review recent advances in these clinical issues, discussing the medical management of gliomas through an updated literature review.

A Review of Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is an aggressive and inevitably recurrent primary intra-axial brain tumor with a dismal prognosis. The current mainstay of treatment involves maximally safe surgical resection followed by radiotherapy over a 6-week period with concomitant temozolomide chemotherapy followed by temozolomide maintenance. This review provides a summary of the epidemiological, clinical, histologic and genetic characteristics of newly diagnosed disease as well as the current standard of care and potential future therapeutic prospects.

EphA2, vascular endothelial growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor correlate with adverse outcomes and poor survival in patients with glioma

PURPOSE

To assess expression levels of Ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EphA2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and von Willebrand factor (vWF), and assess their potentials as prognostic biomarkers to predict the risk of poor survival in patients with primary lower grade glioma.

METHOD

The study included75 patients with histopathologically confirmed primary glioma (World Health Organization Grade IV). All patients underwent combined surgery and postoperative radiotherapy for the management of primary glioma. Immuno-histochemical analysis was performed to evaluate expression levels ofEphA2 and VEGF. Evaluation of tumor microvessel density was also performed at angiogenesis hot spots due to tumor growth. Main outcomes of the study were the prognostic efficiencies of EphA2, VEGF, and vWF in primary low-grade glioma, as well as whether their expression levels were associated with cancer progression.

RESULTS

Of the patients with glioma, 67% had very strong expression of EphA2. Overall survival was inversely correlated with the expression of EphA2. Regarding VEGF expression, 38 patients (51%) had strong expression, 29 patients (39%) had weak expression, and 8 patients (11%) had no expression. Strong VEGF expression was associated with poor prognosis and poor survival.

CONCLUSION

EphA2, VEGF, and vWF could be considered prognostic markers for assessment of primary glioma.

Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Grade II-IV Gliomas as a Function of Molecular Subtype

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in lower-grade gliomas (LGGs, WHO grades II-III) and to stratify the risk of VTE by molecular subtype in gliomas grade II-IV, we performed a retrospective review of a large cohort of patients with glioma.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of a cohort of 635 adult patients with glioma with molecular testing seen at the University of Virginia with a diagnosis of diffuse glioma established from January 2005 to August 2017. Estimates of cumulative incidence of VTE were calculated with death as competing risk; significance was determined using the Fine and Gray model.

RESULTS

Of 256 patients with LGG, 81 were isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type; 113 IDH mutant, 1p/19q codeleted; and 62 IDH mutant, 1p/19q intact. With a median follow-up of 17.9 months, the overall cumulative incidence of VTE was 8.2% for grade II (147 patients), 9.2% for grade III (109 patients), and 30.5% for grade IV (334 patients). In grade II-IV patients, absence of an IDH mutation was associated with a threefold increase in VTE risk when compared to IDH-mutant patients (hazard ratio 3.06, 95% confidence interval 2.03-4.64). In patients with glioblastoma, there was no difference in VTE incidence according to O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status.

CONCLUSION

Patients with LGG have a higher VTE risk compared to the general population, which is decreased, but not eliminated, in the presence of an IDH mutation. MGMT promoter methylation in glioblastoma does not affect the incidence of VTE.

A predictive model of preoperative risk factors for venous thromboembolism after fusion for degenerative conditions of the thoracolumbar spine

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to identify preoperative risk factors for VTE and develop a predictive model that can be integrated into electronic health records (EHRs).

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients undergoing thoracolumbar fusion from 2016 to 2018 in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was performed.

RESULTS

Increasing age, BMI, and several other factors were significant predictors of increased risk for postoperative VTE. The predictive model had an area under the curve of 0.683, indicating acceptable discrimination.

DISCUSSION

Our findings build upon previous studies by presenting a model equation that can be rapidly integrated into EHRs for validation.

Successful Free Tissue Transfer in the Profoundly Hypercoagulable Glioblastoma Multiforme Patient: Surgical Experience and Anticoagulation Protocol

Background Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) produces a hypercoagulable environment and is associated the highest rates of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary emboli (PE) of any malignancy. The use of postoperative radiation in this generally compromised patient group is associated with the development of complex scalp wounds. Free tissue transfer reconstruction will be essential in selected cases despite the presence of an underlying hypercoagulable state.

Methods A 67-year-old female with a history of previous DVT presented with osteoradionecrosis and infected scalp wound following GBM treatment. She underwent reconstruction with a free vastus lateralis flap and skin graft. Initial anticoagulation was provided with intravenous heparin and transitioned to oral apixaban. Wound cultures demonstrated coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Actinomyces neuii, and Peptoniphilus harei and were treated with a 6-week course of intravenous cefepime and vancomycin.

Results Despite the initial failure of a local scalp rotation flap, successful wound healing was achieved with a free muscle flap and a course of culture specific antibiotics. The patient succumbed to recurrent disease 22 months after surgery, underscoring the importance of limiting hospitalization and maximizing quality of life in this group of patients.

Conclusion Free tissue transfer can be successfully achieved in the hypercoagulable GBM patient. Heparin and apixaban were employed successfully in the prevention of thrombotic events. Antiplatelet therapy should also be considered to counteract platelet aggregation induced by the transmembrane glycoprotein (podoplanin) that is expressed on GBM tumor cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay testing (ELISA) of blood soluble podoplanin may help determine the degree of hypercoagulability and guide therapy.

Preoperative and intraoperative predictors of deep venous thrombosis in adult patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumors: A Chinese single-center, retrospective study

PURPOSE

Brain tumor resection by craniotomy is associated with a high risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This study evaluated the incidence and preoperative and intraoperative risk factors for DVT within 30 days of surgery.

METHODS

The analysis included: 1) basic clinical variables (patient age, sex, body mass index [BMI], tumor location, and tumor histology); 2) blood test results before operation, such as leukocytes, platelets, and coagulation parameters; and 3) surgical factors (total amount of blood lost, anesthesia mode, and surgery duration).

RESULTS

Of the 1670 patients, 206 (12.34%) had DVT and nine (0.54%) had both DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE) after surgery. Preoperative and intraoperative factors independently associated with DVT/PE were: older age 46-55 years (odds ratio [OR]: 2.87; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.83-4.50; P < 0.001), age 56-65 years (OR: 5.24; 95% CI: 3.27-8.40; P < 0.001), age > 65 years (OR: 6.00; 95% CI: 3.45-10.45; P < 0.001), BMI (OR: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.00-1.05; P = 0.029), activated partial thromboplastin time [APTT] (OR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.86-0.95; P = 0.000), D-dimer (OR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.23-2.34; P = 0.001), high-grade glioma (OR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.28-3.40; P = 0.003), glio-neuronal (OR: 3.30; 95% CI: 1.28-8.47; P = 0.013), craniopharyngioma (OR: 2.16; 95% CI: 1.13-4.10; P = 0.019), and surgery duration (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.27-2.60; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Older age, BMI, preoperative APTT, D-dimer, tumor histology, and surgery duration independently increased the risk of developing postoperative DVT/PE. These findings provide prognostic information that will guide therapies aimed at minimizing the development of DVT/PE during hospitalization.

Neurological and Medical Complications in Brain Tumor Patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Patients with brain tumors are susceptible to multiple complications that can affect their survival or quality of life. The scope of these complications is widening due to prolonged overall survival and improved therapies. In this review, we discuss the most common complications in this patient population focusing on the recent literature. We specifically concentrated on tumor-related epilepsy, vasogenic edema, infectious, vascular, chemotherapeutic, radiation, endocrine, and cognitive complications.

RECENT FINDINGS

Molecular biomarkers play a role in epileptogenicity in brain tumor patients, and anti-epileptic drugs may cause neuro-cognitive side effects independent of other factors. The pathophysiology of vasogenic edema remains complex and poorly understood. Limited data suggest that newer oral anticoagulants appear to be safe and effective in venous and arterial thromboembolic complications. Brain tumor patients are prone to a wide variety of complications, including some related to new therapies. Optimal management of these complications improves quality of life, and in some cases overall survival.

Risk of intracranial bleeding in patients with primary brain cancer receiving therapeutic anticoagulation for venous thromboembolism: A meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is common in glioma patients. Also, spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is frequently observed in subjects with primary brain tumors. Thus, the management of anticoagulant therapy for VTE is challenging and controversial in these patients. We performed a meta-analysis to clarify the risk of ICH in glioma patients treated with anticoagulant therapy for VTE compared to glioma patients without VTE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases between January 1980 and January 2019 without language restrictions. Summary statistics for ICH were obtained by calculating the odds ratio (OR) using a random effects model, and heterogeneity across studies was estimated by the I² statistic. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the quality of studies.

RESULTS

A total of 368 studies were initially identified. Of these, 346 were excluded after title review. The remaining 22 studies were reviewed in detail. According to the PICO criteria, 15 studies were excluded. Finally, 7 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The OR for ICH in glioma patients receiving therapeutic anticoagulation for VTE versus those who did not receive anticoagulation was 3.66 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.84-7.29; I²  = 31%).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis demonstrates that anticoagulation for VTE increases the risk of ICH in subjects with malignant brain tumors. Future studies are warranted to fully understand the best medical treatment of VTE in glioma patients.

Incidence, Therapy, and Bleeding Risk-Cancer- Associated Thrombosis in Patients with Glioblastoma

Cancer is an independent risk factor for the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Glioblastomas are amongst cancer types with the most thrombogenic potential and patients are at a particularly high risk of VTE with an incidence up to 20-30% per year. Currently, major efforts are underway to gain novel insights into risk factors and pathomechanisms to provide a better understanding of development of VTE in patients with primary brain tumors. Treatment of VTE requires therapeutic anticoagulation, which accordingly to recently-published guidelines should be performed using low molecular weight heparin or, in case of low bleeding risk, using a direct oral anticoagulant. However, this can be very challenging due to an increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage in this patient group. Furthermore, limited data are available on the subgroup of patients with primary brain tumors.

Pulmonary embolism in neurocritical care-introduction of a novel grading system for risk stratification: the Frankfurt AMBOS score

Pulmonary embolism (PE) due to deep vein thrombosis is a complication with severe morbidity and mortality rates. Neurocritical care patients constitute an inhomogeneous cohort with often strict contraindications to conventional embolism treatment. The aim of the present study is to identify risk factors for pulmonary embolism for intensified risk stratification in this demanding cohort. In this retrospective analysis, 387 neurocritical care patients received computed tomography for clinical suspicion of PE (304 neurosurgical and 83 neurological patients). Analysed parameters included age, gender, disease pattern, the presence of deep vein thrombosis, resuscitation, in-hospital mortality, present anticoagulation, coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, smoking status, hypertension and ABO blood type. Computed tomography confirmed 165 cases of pulmonary embolism among 387 patients with clinical suspicion of pulmonary embolism (42%). Younger age (p < 0.0001), female gender (p < 0.006), neurooncological disease (p < 0.002), non-O blood type (p < 0.002) and the absence of Marcumar therapy (p < 0.003) were identified as significant risk factors for pulmonary embolism. On the basis of the identified risk factors, the AMBOS score system is introduced. Neurocritical care patients with high AMBOS score are at elevated risk for PE and should therefore be put under intensified monitoring for cardiovascular events in neurocritical care units.

Prognostic factors in progressive high-grade glial tumors treated with systemic approach: A single center experience

PURPOSE

Malignant high-grade gliomas are the most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor, and the prognosis is generally extremely poor. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the outcome of systemic treatment in recurrent high-grade glioma patients and the impact of prognostic factors on survivals.

METHODS

Data from 114 patients with recurrent high-grade glioma who received systemic treatment and followed in our clinic between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, age, gender, histology, type of surgical resection, side effects after systemic treatment (deep vein thrombosis, hypertension, proteinuria), IDH1 and alpha thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome X-linked (ATRX) mutation status were investigated as prognostic factors for progression-free survival and overall survival.

RESULTS

At the time of diagnosis, the median age was 48 (17-77) and 68% of the patients were male. Most common pathologic subtype was glioblastoma multiforme (68%). Median follow-up duration was 9.1 months (1-68 months). Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 6.2 months and 8 months, respectively. In multivariate analysis, ECOG PS, deep venous thrombosis and the presence of ATRX and IDH1 mutation were found to be independent prognostic factors for progression-free survival (p < 0.05) and, ECOG PS, the presence of ATRX and IDH1 mutation for overall survival (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study is real life data and the median progression-free survival and overall survival rates are similar to the literature. We have found ECOG PS, presence of ATRX and IDH1 mutation to be independent prognostic factors for both progression-free survival and overall survival.

Palliative care in glioma management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The concept of palliative care is becoming increasingly important in the management of glioma patients. However, the right time for implementation, as well as the individual degree of integration of palliative care aspects, are still a matter of debate. This review updates recent evidence of palliative care in glioma and raises questions for future developments.

RECENT FINDINGS

According to the disease-specific aspects of palliative care in glioma management, there is an increasing need for a specialized 'neurooncological' palliative care approach.The implementation of palliative care for glioma patients and caregivers avoids unnecessary hospitalization and reduces health-related costs. Moreover, palliative care may be offered in different settings (inpatient/outpatient) according to local health structures, but definitely improves the QOL of glioma patients and their caregivers.

SUMMARY

There are considerable differences between countries with respect to palliative care in glioma. Major aspects of good-quality care throughout the countries are optimized symptom control, support for patients and proxies by an interdisciplinary team and to provide realistic information to patients and caregivers. The availability of neurooncological palliative teams and multidisciplinary support programs increases well being of glioma patients and caregivers as well as releases pressure on healthcare systems.

A review of anticoagulation in patients with central nervous system malignancy: between a rock and a hard place

The incidence and prevalence of patients who develop primary and secondary metastatic central nervous system cancer (CNS) is increasing. This is a consequence of advancements in the sensitivity and availability of diagnostic imaging, and improved therapeutic options, leading to increased detection of CNS malignancies and improved survival. These patients are at very high risk of thrombosis as well as haemorrhage, and the optimum management of anticoagulation can be challenging for treating clinicians, particularly as robust prospective evidence is sparse. In this focused review, we discuss (1) risk factors for thrombosis and bleeding in these patients, (2) management of acute venous thromboembolism (VTE) including evidence for direct oral anticoagulants, and how to approach patients with contraindications to anticoagulation, (3) ambulatory VTE prophylaxis, (4) VTE prophylaxis in patients who have undergone craniotomy for cancer, and (5) management of anticoagulation-related intracranial haemorrhage. Based on review of the available literature and author opinion, we propose practical management algorithms to aid clinicians faced with treating CNS cancer patients with thrombosis or CNS haemorrhage.

Idh-1 Status and Venous Thromboembolism in Glioma Patients

Background: Venous thromboembolic events (VTE) are common causes of morbidity and mortality in glioblastoma patients. Mutation in the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 enzyme (IDH1) is frequent in secondary glioblastoma and results in altered metabolomics. Objectives: This study evaluates whether IDH-1 status correlates with incidence of VTE in glioblastoma patients. Methods: Observational study of 398 cases of patients with glioblastoma, who all underwent surgery in a regional Neurosurgical centre between April 2012 and December 2014. IDH -1 status and Tissue factor (F3) protein expression were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were diagnosed by Doppler ultrasound and pulmonary CT angiogram respectively. Results: 336 cases were wild type (WT) IDH-1 (94.1%) and 21 cases were IDH-1 mutated (R132H) (5.9%). 51 patients had a thromboembolic event (15.3%), with all cases of VTE in WT IDH-1 tumours, a rate of 21.8% within this group. IDH-1 status had a significant correlation with VTE (p=0.033 Fisher exact test). As expected, mutant IDH was associated with prolonged patient survival (p=0.024 Log rank). The mean expression in IDH-1 wild type GBM was 7.14 and in R132h mutant GBM was 4.87 (log2 scale). This was highly statistically significant with a corrected P value of less than 0.0001. Conclusion: A significant association exists between IDH1 status in glioblastoma patients and the risk of VTE. Patients with wild type IDH-1 appear at high risk of VTE and appropriate precautions should be considered

Assessment of genetic and non-genetic risk factors for venous thromboembolism in glioblastoma - The predictive significance of B blood group

INTRODUCTION

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common problem among patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and with some other cancers. Here, we evaluated genetic and non-genetic potential risk factors for VTE among GBM patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cohort of 139 patients treated with concomitant radiotherapy and temozolomide were included in the study. Next generation sequencing and genotyping approaches were applied to assess genetic risk factors in the haemostatic system. Clinical data including surgery, reoperation as well as blood group and patient information such as age and gender were available from patient records. Logistic regression analysis was performed to asses VTE risk.

RESULTS

In the study 47 patients (34%) were diagnosed for VTE during the course of their disease. When genetic and non-genetic potential risk factors were evaluated, only B blood group was found to be significantly associated with VTE incidence (odds ratio [OR] = 6.91; confidence interval [CI] = 2.19-24.14; P = 0.001). In contrast, A and O blood groups did not correlate with VTE risk. Frontal lobe tumor location also seemed to slightly increase VTE risk compared to other brain sites (OR = 3.14; CI = 1.1-10.7) although the significance level was at borderline (P = 0.05). Current study identified B blood group as the component in non-O blood groups that is responsible for increased VTE risk.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, these results suggest for the first time that B blood group is predictive for VTE incidence among patients with glioblastoma, information that may be potentially valuable when selecting GBM patients who are at risk for VTE for anticoagulant prophylaxis.

What Is the Safety and Efficacy of Chemical Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis Following Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery?

OBJECTIVE

The benefit of routine chemical prophylaxis use for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention in skull base surgery is controversial. Chemical prophylaxis can prevent undue morbidity and mortality, however there are risks for hemorrhagic complications.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case-control.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent surgery for vestibular schwannoma from 2011 to 2016 was performed. Patients were divided by receipt of chemical VTE prophylaxis. Number of VTEs and hemorrhagic complications (intracranial hemorrhage, abdominal hematoma, and postauricular hematoma) were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-six patients were identified, 55 received chemical prophylaxis, and 71 did not. All the patients received mechanical prophylaxis. Two patients developed a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and one patient developed a pulmonary embolism (PE). All patients who developed a DVT or PE received chemical prophylaxis. There was no difference in DVT (p = 0.1886) or PE (p = 0.4365) between those who received chemical prophylaxis and those who did not. Five patients developed a hemorrhagic complication, two intracranial hemorrhage, three abdominal hematoma, and zero postauricular hematoma. All five patients with a complication received chemical prophylaxis (p = 0.00142). The relative risk of a hemorrhagic complication was 14.14 (95% CI = 0.7987-250.4307; p = 0.0778).

CONCLUSION

There was a significant difference between the number of hemorrhagic complications but not between numbers of DVT or PE. Mechanical and chemical prophylaxis may lower the risk of VTE but in our series, hemorrhagic complications were observed. These measures should be used selectively in conjunction with early ambulation.

Podoplanin Expression and IDH-Wildtype Status Predict Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with High-Grade Gliomas in the Early Postoperative Period

OBJECTIVE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) often is encountered in patients with high-grade gliomas. The underlying mechanisms are unclear, as is the optimal prophylactic protocol. The purpose of the present study was to identify risk factors of VTE and examine the validity of early VTE detection in high-grade gliomas.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 165 patients with newly diagnosed high-grade glioma treated at Niigata University Hospital during the years 2009 to 2016. If the serum D-dimer levels increased to 5.0 μg/mL or more, computed tomography was performed to detect VTE. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry with antibodies against podoplanin was performed on available 101 tumor tissues.

RESULTS

Of the 165 patients, 44 (26.7%) developed VTE. Of the 44 patients, 34 (79.5%) developed VTE within 7 days after surgery. No fatal VTE occurred and major complications secondary to anticoagulation occurred in only 2 (1.2%) patients. On multivariate analysis, lower Karnofsky Performance Scale status, podoplanin expression, and isocitrate dehydrogenase-wildtype status were independently associated with the risk of VTE (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that most VTEs occurred early in the postoperative period and commonly in patients with lower Karnofsky Performance Scale status and isocitrate dehydrogenase-wildtype gliomas, which expressed podoplanin.

von Willebrand Factor Gene Expression in Primary Lower Grade Glioma: Mutually Co-Occurring Mutations in von Willebrand Factor, ATRX, and TP53

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism is a common complication in patients with glioma. The clotting factor von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a highly adhesive procoagulant molecule that mediates platelet adhesion to endothelial and subendothelial surfaces. In the current analysis, we examined The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data to assess the VWF gene in patients with lower grade gliomas.

METHODS

For newly diagnosed gliomas, we evaluated the association between VWF and overall survival in the Genomic Data Commons TCGA Lower Grade Glioma (LGG) dataset in TCGA. Simple statistics were calculated to identify patterns of mutual exclusivity or co-occurrence of VWF mutations. For each pair of query genes an odds ratio was calculated that indicates the likelihood that the mutations in the two genes are mutually exclusive or co-occurrent across the selected cases. To determine whether the identified relationship was significant for a gene pair, Fisher's exact test was performed.

RESULTS

Lower grade gliomas with less VWF gene expression had significantly better survival than those with more VWF gene expression (hazard ratio 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.44 to 0.92, p=0.015 log rank test). When we analyzed the data with Cox regression, VWF expression had a significant effect on survival (p=0.02) that was unrelated to the effect of IDH1 expression (p=0.062), TP53 expression (p=0.135), independent of ATRX expression (p=0.021) and histology (astrocytoma versus oligoastrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, p=0.002). VWF mutations significantly co-occur with mutations in TP53 and ATRX (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The deleterious prognostic effect of VWF expression and its co-occurrent mutations with TP53 and ATRX in lower grade gliomas are not surprising, given VWF's role in other cancers. Therefore, VWF gene expression may be a clinically important risk marker in lower grade glioma.

Venous Thromboembolism in Brain Tumors: Risk Factors, Molecular Mechanisms, and Clinical Challenges

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients with primary brain tumors, with up to 20% of patients per year having a VTE event. Clinical risk factors for VTE include glioblastoma subtype, paresis, or surgery. Furthermore, specific factors playing a role in tumor biology were recently identified to predispose to prothrombotic risk. For instance, mutations in the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) gene, which occurs in a subgroup of glioma, correlate with risk of VTE, with low incidence in patients with presence of an IDH1 mutation compared with those with IDH1 wild-type status. In addition, expression of the glycoprotein podoplanin on brain tumors was associated with both intratumoral thrombi and high risk of VTE. As podoplanin has the ability to activate platelets, a mechanistic role of podoplanin-mediated platelet activation in VTE development has been suggested. From a clinical point of view, the management of patients with primary brain tumors and VTE is challenging. Anticoagulation is required to treat patients; however, it is associated with increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage. This review focuses on describing the epidemiology, risk factors, and mechanisms of brain tumor-associated thrombosis and discusses clinical challenges in the prevention and treatment of VTE in patients with brain tumors.

The Role of Platelets in Cancer Pathophysiology: Focus on Malignant Glioma

The link between thrombocytosis and malignancy has been well known for many years and its associations with worse outcomes have been reported mainly for solid tumors. Besides measuring platelet count, it has become popular to assess platelet function in the context of malignant diseases during the last decade. Malignant gliomas differ tremendously from malignancies outside the central nervous system because they virtually never form distant metastases. This review summarizes the current understanding of the platelet-immune cell communication and its potential role in glioma resistance and progression. Particularly, we focus on platelet-derived proinflammatory modulators, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). The multifaceted interaction with immune cells puts the platelet into an interesting perspective regarding the recent advances in immunotherapeutic approaches in malignant glioma.

Incidence of Dural Venous Sinus Thrombosis in Patients with Glioblastoma and Its Implications

OBJECTIVE

Glioblastoma (GBM) is associated with increased risk of developing dural venous sinus thrombosis (DVST), which often goes undiagnosed as symptoms are readily attributed to tumor. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of DVST, potential predictive features on imaging, complications, its effect on survival, and time of greatest risk for developing DVST.

METHODS

A retrospective search of patients with GBM who had surgery followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy between 2009 and 2015 at our institution was performed. Magnetic resonance imaging studies of the brain were reviewed on volumetric postgadolinium T1-weighted sequences for DVST. Tumors were characterized using the Visually Accessible REMBRANDT (Repository for Molecular Brain Neoplasia Data) Images classification, and identified thromboses were tracked for propagation, regression, or resolution. Statistical analyses were directed at identifying clinical predictors and survival differences between the DVST and no-DVST groups.

RESULTS

In total, 163 cases totaling 1637 scans, were reviewed; 12 patients (7.4%) developed DVST, of whom 11 presented with thrombus before any treatment. Tumor invasion of dural sinuses and greater T1/fluid-attenuated inversion recovery ratios were significantly associated with thrombus development (P = 0.02 and P = 0.02, respectively). In patients who developed DVST, thrombosis was more likely to develop ipsilateral to tumor side (P = 0.01) and was associated with a greater likelihood of developing extracranial venous thromboembolism (P = 0.012). There were no venous infarcts and no significant difference in survival between groups (P = 0.83).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with GBM have increased risk of developing DVST, independent of surgical treatment or chemoradiation. DVST presence does not affect survival. Tumor invasion of dural sinuses and greater T1/fluid-attenuated inversion recovery ratio on preoperative imaging were the most significant predictors of DVST development.

Venous Thromboembolism After Degenerative Spine Surgery: A Nationwide Readmissions Database Analysis

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an appreciable burden on health care. The protracted recumbency experienced by many spinal patients juxtaposed with concerns for postoperative hemorrhage from early anticoagulation results in conflicting stances regarding chemoprophylaxis. Identifying risk factors associated with VTE is therefore instrumental in guiding management.

OBJECTIVE

To identify VTE risk factors in patients undergoing degenerative spine surgery.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmissions Database was searched for adults undergoing spine surgery for degenerative diseases between 2010 and 2014. The 30-day and 90-day VTE incidence was estimated from readmissions with new VTE diagnoses. A multivariate survey-adjusted logistic regression model was used to identify variables associated with VTE diagnoses on readmission.

RESULTS

Of 838,507 degenerative spine cases queried, 3499 patients (0.42%) were readmitted with a VTE diagnosis within 30 days and 4321 patients (0.62%) were readmitted within 90 days. In multivariate analysis, steroids were independently associated with a higher likelihood of readmission with VTE at both 30 days (odds ratio, 1.58; P < 0.001) and 90 days (odds ratio, 1.97; P < 0.001). Significant associations were also identified with thoracolumbar surgery, length of stay, and discharge to institutional care.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of readmission with VTE diagnoses in spine surgery is low. However, their devastating consequences underscore the need to identify those patients deemed high risk. These patients include those having thoracolumbar surgery, of advanced age, with prolonged length of stay, using corticosteroids, and with a disposition to institutional care (e.g., skilled nursing facility or long-term acute care). Given the association between steroids and VTE, clinicians should be judicious about perioperative administration despite their obvious antiinflammatory benefits.

Incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of venous thromboembolism after oncologic surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The risk and prognosis of VTE associated with oncologic surgery need to be quantified to guide patient management. We aimed to examine the availability of data and to report the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in cancer patients after surgery, as well as the clinical outcomes of VTE following oncologic surgery.

METHODS

We searched multiple databases for terms related to VTE after oncologic surgery from inception to November 1, 2017. A random-effects meta-analysis was done to calculate the pooled incidence of VTE.

RESULTS

Of the 8611 citations identified, 136 studies including 1,481,659 patients met the eligibility criteria. The overall incidence of VTE was estimated to be 2.3% (95% CI 2.1-2.5). Bone and soft tissue cancer (10.6%, 95% CI 2.9-18.2) and lung cancer (8.1%, 95% CI 3.7-12.6) were associated with the highest and second highest risk of postoperative VTE, respectively. Age (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.46, 95% CI 0.40-0.53; I² = 93.8%), radiation (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.03-1.62; I² = 34.6%), transfusion (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.48-2.59; I² = 57.0%), and operative time (SMD = 1.12, 95% CI 1.07-1.16; I² = 100%) were possible risk factors for postoperative VTE. Patients with VTE versus those without had increased odds of all-cause fatal events (11.15, 95% CI 4.07-30.56; I² = 92.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of VTE after oncologic surgery remains high, and this risk varied according to the cancer type, study region, surgical location, and thromboprophylactic strategy. VTE is associated with increased mortality at the early stage of cancer surgery.

Increased expression of von Willebrand factor gene is associated with poorer survival in primary lower grade glioma

Background

Venous thromboembolism is a common complication in patients with glioma. The clotting factor von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a highly adhesive procoagulant molecule that mediates platelet adhesion to endothelial and subendothelial surfaces. In the current analysis, we examined The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data to assess the effect of VWF gene expression on prognosis in patients with lower grade gliomas (LGGs).

Methods

For newly diagnosed gliomas, we evaluated the association between and overall survival in the genomic data commons TCGA LGG dataset in TCGA. Survival data of the glioma subgroup were extracted for analysis and generation of Kaplan-Meier curves for overall survival.

Results

Lower grade gliomas with less VWF gene expression had significantly better survival than those with more VWF gene expression (hazard ratio 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.44-0.92, P 0.015 log rank test). The effect of VWF gene expression on survival was even more evident when the sample was analyzed as three groups (P = 0.00019). IDH1, TP53, and ATRX mutations are present in 40% or more adult LGGs.

Conclusion

The deleterious prognostic effect of VWF expression in LGGs is not surprising, given its role in other cancers. Therefore, VWF gene expression may be a clinically important risk marker in LGG.

Venous thromboembolic complications with and without intermittent intraoperative and postoperative pneumatic compression in patients with glioblastoma multiforme using intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging. A retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of intraoperative and postoperative intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) as a method used to decrease the incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), in comparison to the standard use of graduated compression stockings, low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and physiotherapy during the hospital stay. All patients in this study underwent intracranial surgery for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) using intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a single center retrospective study of a cohort of 153 patients who underwent surgery for GBM aided by intraoperative MRI from October of 2009 to January of 2015 at the International Neuroscience Institute (INI), Hannover, Germany. Out of all patients, 75 in comparison to 78 were operated with and without the additional use of IPC, respectively. Both groups received graduated compression stockings, LMWH and physiotherapy postoperatively as a basic thromboprophylaxis. Postoperatively the patients were screened for DVT by Doppler ultrasonography of the limbs and pulmonary embolism (PE) by CT-scan of the chest.

RESULTS

DVTs were found in 6 patients with IPC and in 3 patients without IPC. The incidence of developing DVTs was therefore not significantly increased with the application of IPC from 3.9% to 8% (P-value: 0.33). No statistically significant differences were found in the probability of occurrence of pulmonary embolism (PE) with a reduction from 2.6% to 1.3% (P-value: 0.59).

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate, that the surgical intervention and the subsequent patient immobilization, as well as the thromboprophylactic techniques used have a relatively low influence on the occurrence of thromboembolic complications than we expected. Our findings might be attributed to the overall low number of these complications in a glioblastoma multiforme patient population expected to be at a high risk for coagulopathy. In other words, in order to produce statistically significant results, we would need to increase the patient cohort. By doing so we may better detect a positive therapeutic effect. Alternatively, because of the multitude of possible complex risk-factors leading to coagulopathy in a glioblastoma patient population it might be the case that IPC has little or no effect and that there is a different underlying mechanism responsible for the observed coagulopathy.