Cut-off value of D-dimer for prediction of deep venous thrombosis before treatment in ovarian cancer

Prophylactic effect of compression stockings for elevated D-dimer levels following endoscopic submucosal dissection

Objectives

A relationship between endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and deep vein thrombosis has been recognized. We previously reported that a high corrected midazolam dose (total midazolam dose/initial dose of midazolam used to induce sedation) is related to elevated D-dimer levels after ESD. In this study, the effect of compression stockings (CSs) in preventing thrombosis following ESD under sedation was evaluated by measuring D-dimer levels before and after ESD.

Methods

The participants were patients who underwent ESD for upper gastrointestinal tumors during the period between April 2018 and October 2022. Patients with pre-ESD D-dimer levels ≥1.6 µg/m and patients with corrected midazolam doses ≤3.0 were excluded. A retrospective investigation of the relationship between CS use and high post-ESD D-dimer levels (difference in D-dimer levels ≥1.0 µg/mL between before and after ESD) was conducted.

Results

There were 27 patients in the non-CS group (NCS) and 33 patients in the CS group. The number of patients with high post-ESD D-dimer levels was 13 (48.2%) in the non-CS group and six (18.2%) in the CS group; the number in the CS group was significantly lower (p = 0.024). On logistic regression analysis, a relationship was seen between the wearing of CSs and a lower number of patients with high post-ESD D-dimer levels (odds ratio 0.24, 95% confidence interval 0.08-0.79, p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Wearing CSs was related to a lower risk of high post-ESD D-dimer levels. This result suggests that thrombus formation is a cause of elevated D-dimer levels after ESD.

Survival and biomarker analysis for cancer‑associated thromboembolism in ovarian clear cell carcinoma

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of cancer-associated thromboembolism (CAT) on the survival and biomarkers of ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC). Patients with OCCC who underwent surgery at the National Defense Medical College Hospital (Tokorozawa, Japan) between January 2000 and December 2019 were included in the current study. Associations among CAT, clinicopathological features and prognosis were retrospectively compared. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining was conducted in all patients to compare differences between patients with and without CAT. Among 111 patients with OCCC, 20 patients (18.0%) had CAT complications. CAT was detected in 12 patients (10.8%) before primary treatment and in 8 patients (7.2%) after primary surgery. Patients with CAT experienced more tumor recurrence (P=0.048) and platinum resistance (P=0.025), had worse progression-free survival (PFS; P<0.01) and overall survival (OS; P<0.01), and multivariate analysis showed that CAT was a prognostic factor for worse PFS [hazard ratio (HR)=2.10, P=0.039] and OS (HR=4.26, P<0.01). Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that more OCCC cases with CAT were positive for tissue factor (TF; P=0.030) and phosphorylated-Janus kinase 2 (JAK2; P=0.034) expression than those without CAT. In conclusion, CAT may be associated with platinum resistance and poor prognosis in patients with OCCC. Furthermore, TF and JAK2 could be considered potential novel therapeutic targets for OCCC complicated by CAT.

Machine learning-based model for prediction of deep vein thrombosis after gynecological laparoscopy: A retrospective cohort study

Successful monitoring of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) remains a challenging problem after gynecological laparoscopy. Thus, this study aimed to create and validate predictive models for DVT with the help of machine learning (ML) algorithms. A total of 489 patients from the Cancer Biology Research Center, Tongji Hospital were included in the study between January 2017 and February 2023, and 35 clinical indicators from electronic health records (EHRs) were collected within 24h of patient admission. Risk factors were identified using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Then, the three commonly used DVT prediction models are random forest model (RFM), generalized linear regression model (GLRM), and artificial neural network model (ANNM). In addition, the predictive performance of various prediction models (i.e. the robustness and accuracy of predictions) is evaluated through the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA), respectively. We found postoperative DVT in 41 (8.38%) patients. Based on the ML algorithm, a total of 13 types of clinical data were preliminarily screened as candidate variables for DVT prediction models. Among these, age, body mass index (BMI), operation time, intraoperative pneumoperitoneum pressure (IPP), diabetes, complication and D-Dimer independent risk factors for postoperative DVT and can be used as variables in ML prediction models. The RFM algorithm can achieve the optimal DVT prediction performance, with AUC values of 0.851 (95% CI: 0.793-0.909) and 0.862 (95% CI: 0.804-0.920) in the training and validation sets, respectively. The AUC values of the other two prediction models (ANNM and GLRM) range from 0.697 (95% CI: 0.639-0.755) and 0.813 (95% CI: 0.651-0.767). In summary, we explored the potential risk of DVT after gynecological laparoscopy, which helps clinicians identify high-risk patients before gynecological laparoscopy and make nursing interventions. However, external validation will be needed in the future.

Risk Factors for Elevated D-Dimer Levels in Patients with Gastrointestinal Tumors Treated with Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is almost always performed with a sedative because of the longer procedure times involved. The risk of post-ESD deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has been reported as relatively high, and D-dimer levels are sometimes elevated after ESD. This retrospective study evaluated factors affecting changes in D-dimer levels from before to after ESD to identify causes of elevated D-dimer levels after ESD. This retrospective analysis included 117 patients with gastrointestinal tumors resected using ESD. After excluding eight patients with pre-ESD levels of D-dimer >1.5 μg/mL, factors correlating with changes in D-dimer from before to after ESD were analyzed using logistic regression analysis in 109 patients. Sedation was accomplished primarily using midazolam, but, because the sedative effect of midazolam shows marked inter-individual variability, a "corrected midazolam dose" was determined by dividing the total midazolam dose by the initial dose to correct for inter-individual differences in the sedative effect of midazolam. This value was used as one potential explanatory variable in the subgroup analysis of the 103 patients who received midazolam. In the subgroup analysis using the corrected midazolam dose as an explanatory variable, only the corrected midazolam dose correlated with a change in D-dimer ≥1.0 μg/mL in multivariate analysis (odds ratio (OR) = 1.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.43-0.95; p = 0.030). The corrected midazolam dose correlated with increases in post-ESD D-dimer levels. This potential relationship indicates that patients undergoing ESD and requiring extended sedation may be at increased risk of DVT.

Clear cell carcinoma of the ovary and venous thromboembolism: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

As the second most common subtype of Epithelial ovarian cancers (EOCs), ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is associated with a high rate of cancer-associated thrombosis. Previous studies revealed the wide range prevalence (6-42%) of venous thromboembolism (VTE) among OCCC patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of VTE among OCCC patients as well as factors affecting it.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to December 12th, 2022. Studies reporting venous thromboembolic events in women with clear cell carcinoma of the ovary were included. Demographic data, clinical, and paraclinical features of the patients were independently extracted by two reviewers.

RESULTS

Out of the 2254 records, 43 studies were processed for final review. The qualified studies involved 573 VTE cases among 2965 patients with OCCC. The pooled prevalence of VTE among OCCC patients was 21.32% (95%CI=(17.38-25.87)). Most VTE events were reported in Japanese women (26.15%), followed by Americans (24.41%) and UK (21.57%), and Chinese (13.61%) women. VTE was more common in patients with advanced stages (37.79%) compared to those with early stages of the disease (16.54%).

CONCLUSIONS

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma is associated with a high rate of cancer-associated thrombosis. VTE events in OCCC patients were higher in advanced stages and Japanese women.

Clinical Utility of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index Before Surgical Intervention for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study is to analyze the impact of the geriatric nutritional risk index (a patient nutritional assessment item) on the prognoses of epithelial ovarian cancer patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective study conducted at a single hospital, we retrospectively analyzed 75 epithelial ovarian cancer patients who underwent surgical treatment at our hospital from 2010 to 2015. The geriatric nutritional risk index cut-off value was calculated using the receiver operating characteristic curve. Patients were divided into two groups on the basis of the calculated value. Kaplan-Meier curves were prepared for each group, and the difference in survival rates was calculated using the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to compare other factors that affect prognosis.

RESULTS

The geriatric nutritional risk index was calculated to be 97.3. The survival rate was 61.9% for the group of patients with an index value > 97.3, and 39.4% for patients with an index value < 97.3 at 48 months (P < 0.001). A univariate analysis was performed with the following variables: age > 60 years, albumin level < 3.5 g/dL, body mass index < 22, presence of ascites, cancer antigen 125 level > 35 U/mL, type of tumor tissue, residual lesion, and geriatric nutritional risk index < 97.3. Albumin level, residual lesion, and geriatric nutritional risk index showed significant differences. A multivariate analysis was also performed, and only the geriatric nutritional risk index showed a significant difference (P = 0.0481).

CONCLUSIONS

The geriatric nutritional risk index may have a strong influence on the prognoses of epithelial ovarian cancer patients. We recommend utilizing these findings in daily clinical practice and incorporating them into treatment strategies for epithelial ovarian cancer.

Incidence and risk factors of perioperative venous thromboembolism in patients with cervical cancer

The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the perioperative incidence and risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing surgery for cervical cancer. The retrospective medical records of consecutive patients with cervical cancer were collected at the Qianfoshan Hospital affiliated with Shandong University from July 2014 to July 2017. Basic information regarding the patients, as well as tumor and surgery-related factors were compared between the cervical cancer patients with and without VTE. In the present study, a total of 338 patients undergoing surgery for cervical cancer were included. Ten (3.0%) patients were diagnosed with preoperative VTE and 18 (5.5%) with postoperative VTE. Multivariate analyses found that high levels of D-dimer and a larger size of the cervical tumor were independent risk factors for preoperative VTE, whereas the length of surgery and use of chemotherapy were independently associated with VTE development within 30 days after surgery. In conclusion, the major findings of the present study was a significant incidence of VTE in patients with cervical cancer. We also identified the clinical characteristics which can cause cervical cancer patients to have an increased risk for VTE.

A new pre-test probability score for diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in patients before surgery

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism is a serious perioperative complication. We developed a new pre-test probability score for predicting deep vein thrombosis (DVT) before surgery.

METHODS

Whole leg ultrasonography was performed on 973 inpatients and outpatients with suspected DVT based on a preoperative D-dimer cut-off value of ≥ 1 μg/ml. We allocated two-thirds (n = 651) of the study participants to a derivation cohort and one-third (n = 322) to a validation cohort. The pre-test probability model was developed from the derivation cohort data.

RESULTS

The pre-test probability model for DVT assigned 2 points to D-dimer ≥ 1.5 μg/mL and 1 point each to age ≥ 60 years, female sex, ongoing glucocorticoid therapy, prolonged immobility, and cancer with high risk of DVT. The area under the curve of the pre-test probability score was 0.72 and 0.70 in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. The rates of DVT according to pre-test probability scores in the derivation and validation cohorts were 7% and 6% in the low (score = 0-2), 23% and 22% in the intermediate (score = 3-4), and 47% and 50% in the high probability group (score ≥ 5), respectively (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The pre-test probability score (Kagoshima-DVT score) was helpful in detecting preoperative DVT in both inpatients and outpatients. We identified low probability group to reduce whole-leg ultrasonography and high probability group to detect more DVT before surgery.

Prevalence and risk factors of preoperative venous thromboembolism in patients with malignant musculoskeletal tumors: an analysis based on D-dimer screening and imaging

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major complication in patients with malignant tumors and orthopedic disorders. Although it is known that patients undergoing surgery for malignant musculoskeletal tumor are at an increased risk of thromboembolic events, only few studies have investigated this risk in detail. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for preoperative VTE in malignant musculoskeletal tumors patients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 270 patients who underwent surgical procedures, including biopsy for malignant musculoskeletal tumor, have undergone measurements of preoperative D-dimer levels, and were subsequently screened for VTE by lower extremity venous ultrasonography and/or contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans. Statistical analyses were performed to examine the prevalence and risk factors for VTE. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to verify the D-dimer cutoff value for the diagnosis of VTE.

Results

Overall, 199 patients (103 with primary soft tissue sarcomas, 38 with primary bone sarcomas, 46 with metastatic tumors, and 12 with hematologic malignancies) were included. D-dimer levels were high in 79 patients; VTE was detected in 19 patients (9.5%). Multivariate analysis indicated that age ≥ 60 years (P = 0.021) and tumor location in the lower limbs (P = 0.048) were independent risk factors for VTE. ROC analysis showed that the D-dimer cutoff value for the diagnosis of VTE was 1.53 µg/mL; the sensitivity and specificity were 89.5% and 79.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our study indicated that age and tumor location in the lower limbs were independent risk factors for preoperative VTE in malignant musculoskeletal tumors patients. D-dimer levels were not associated with VTE in the multivariate analysis, likely because they are affected by a wide variety of conditions, such as malignancy and aging. D-dimer is useful for exclusion diagnosis because of its high sensitivity, but patients with high age and tumor location in the lower limbs are a high-risk group and should be considered for imaging evaluation such as ultrasonography regardless of D-dimer levels.

Trial registration

Our study was approved by the institutional review board. The registration number is B200600056. The registration date was July 13, 2020.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12959-022-00382-2.

Therapeutic Strategies Focused on Cancer-Associated Hypercoagulation for Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is associated with chemotherapy resistance and poor prognosis, especially in advanced cases. Although comprehensive genomic analyses have clarified the significance of genomic alterations such as ARID1A and PIK3CA mutations in OCCC, therapeutic strategies based on genomic alterations have not been confirmed. On the other hand, OCCC is clinically characterized by a high incidence of thromboembolism. Moreover, OCCC specifically shows high expression of tissue factor and interleukin-6, which play a critical role in cancer-associated hypercoagulation and may be induced by OCCC-specific genetic alterations or the endometriosis-related tumor microenvironment. In this review, we focused on the association between cancer-associated hypercoagulation and molecular biology in OCCC. Moreover, we reviewed the effectiveness of candidate drugs targeting hypercoagulation, such as tissue factor- or interleukin-6-targeting drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-hypoxia signaling drugs, anticoagulants, and combined immunotherapy with these drugs for OCCC. This review is expected to contribute to novel basic research and clinical trials for the prevention, early detection, and treatment of OCCC focused on hypercoagulation.

Tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 as a serum marker for diagnosing asymptomatic venous thromboembolism in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer and positive D-dimer results

Tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) is a serodiagnostic marker for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and is the primary inhibitor of the extrinsic coagulation pathway. The present study assessed the diagnostic performance of TFPI2 for detecting venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with EOC and positive D-dimer results (>1.0 µg/ml). First, the clinical data of 81 patients with EOC admitted to Nara Medical University Hospital between January 2008 and December 2015 were collected. Also, 25 patients with VTE and 56 patients without VTE were included. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to determine the diagnostic efficacy of TFPI2 in discriminating patients with VTE from those without VTE. Serum TFPI2 levels in patients with VTE were significantly higher than in non-VTE patients (median, 472.2 vs. 279.1 pg/ml, P<0.001). Using the Youden index, the optimal cutoff value for the TFPI2 level was set at 398.9 pg/ml. Furthermore, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of TFPI2 for diagnosing VTE were 64.0, 80.4, 59.3 and 83.3%, respectively. Additionally, 80.4% of patients with TFPI2 levels <398.9 pg/ml were VTE-negative. ROC analysis demonstrated that the area under the curve for TFPI2 was 0.729 (95% confidence interval, 0.614-0.844). Conclusively, TFPI2 may distinguish patients with VTE from those without VTE among patients with EOC and positive D-dimer results.

Development and Validation of a Nomogram to Predict the Probability of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

To identify predictive factors and develop a nomogram to predict the probability of venous thromboembolism for epithelial ovarian cancer patients. Methods: Our study cohort was composed of 208 EOC patients who had received initial treatment in Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital from January 2016 to March 2020. Clinicopathological variables predictive of VTE were identified using univariate logistic analysis. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to select the predictive factors used for nomogram. The accuracy of nomogram was evaluated by the Concordance index (C-index), the area under the receiver–operator characteristic (ROC) curve, area under concentration-time curve (AUC) and the calibration curve. Results: Advancing age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.042; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.000-1.085; P = .048), higher D-dimer level (HR, 1.144; 95%CI, 1.020-1.283; P = .022), lower PR immunohistochemical positive rate (HR, 0.186; 95%CI, 0.034-1.065; P = .059) and higher Ki67 immunohistochemical positive rate (HR, 4.502; 95%CI, 1.637-12.380; P = .004) were found to be independent risk factors for VTE, and were used to construct the nomogram. The C-index for VTE prediction of the nomogram was 0.75. Conclusions: We constructed and validated a nomogram able to quantify the risk of VTE for EOC patients, which can be applied in recognizing EOC patients with high risk of VTE.

High prevalence of pulmonary embolism prior to cancer therapies in patients with ovarian and endometrial cancers detected by contrast-enhanced CT using D-dimer as an index

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of pulmonary embolism (PE) before cancer therapies in patients with ovarian and endometrial cancers with enhanced computed tomography (CT) using D-dimer (DD), and determine the optimal cut-off level of DD.

METHODS

Since 2009, we have performed preoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) screening of patients with ovarian and endometrial cancer. For patients with DD levels of more than 1.0 μg/ml, enhanced CT images were obtained from the pulmonary apex to the foot to detect PE and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) simultaneously.

RESULTS

Among patients with ovarian cancer, 84 of 413 (20.3%) had VTEs (DVT alone, n = 31 [7.5%]; PE with or without DVT, n = 53 [12.8%]; PE alone, n = 12 [2.9%]). Among patients with endometrial cancer, 50 of 455 (11.0%) had VTEs (DVT alone, n = 19 [4.2%]; PE with or without DVT, n = 31 [6.8%], PE alone, n = 14 [3.1%]). The optimal cut-off level of DD was estimated to be ≥1.5 and ≥1.2 μg/ml in ovarian and endometrial cancers, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed a high prevalence of PE before cancer therapies in patients with ovarian and endometrial cancers by enhanced CT using DD.

Risk factors of deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity in patients undergone gynecological laparoscopic surgery: what should we care

BACKGROUND

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) significantly influences the prognosis of patients. It's necessary to analyze the risk factors for postoperative DVT in patients undergone gynecological laparoscopic surgery.

METHODS

Patients who underwent gynecological laparoscopic surgery from January 1, 2018 to May 31, 2020 were included. The characteristics and clinical data of DVT and non DVT patients were collected and analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors of DVT in patients undergone gynecological laparoscopic surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 355 patients undergone gynecological laparoscopic surgery were included, the incidence of postoperative DVT was 11.55%. There were significant differences in the age, hypertension, D-dimer, duration of surgery, intraoperative pneumoperitoneum pressure, duration of days in bed between DVT and non-DVT groups (all p < 0.05), and there were no significant difference in the BMI, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, ASA classification and intraoperative blood transfusion between DVT and non-DVT groups (all p > 0.05). Age > 50 years (OR 4.246, 95% CI 1.234-7.114), hypertension (OR 2.219, 95% CI 1.153-4.591), D-dimer > 0.5 mg/L (OR 3.914, 95% CI 1.083-5.229), duration of surgery ≥ 60 min (OR 2.542, 95% CI 1.101-4.723), intraoperative pneumoperitoneum pressure ≥ 15 mmHg (OR 3.845, 95% CI 1.119-5.218), duration of days in bed > 3 days (OR 1.566, 95% CI 1.182-1.994) was the independent risk factors for DVT in patients undergone gynecological laparoscopic surgery (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of postoperative DVT in patients undergone gynecological laparoscopic surgery is high, and those high-risk factors should be targeted to intervene in order to reduce the postoperative DVT.

D-Dimer as a Prognostic Indicator in Critically Ill Patients Hospitalized With COVID-19 in Leishenshan Hospital, Wuhan, China

Background: D-dimer is a small protein fragment and high levels of D-dimer have been associated with increased mortality in patients presenting to emergency departments with infection. Previous studies have reported increased levels of D-dimer in COVID-19; however, it is unclear whether an increased D-dimer level provides early warning of poor prognosis. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the usefulness of D-dimer as an early indicator of prognosis in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of patients with COVID-19 admitted to Leishenshan Hospital in Wuhan, China, from February 15 to March 30, 2020. The final date of follow-up was April 11, 2020.

Results: Of the 1,643 patients with COVID-19, 691 had elevated D-dimer levels. Their median age was 65 years. Of the patients with elevated D-dimer levels, 45% had comorbidities, with cardiovascular disease (205 [29.7%]) being the most common. Patients with elevated D-dimer were more likely to require treatment with high-flow oxygen, anticoagulation, antibiotics, and admission to the intensive care unit They were also more likely to have increased interleukin-6, monocytes, and lymphocytes. Patients with elevated D-dimer levels had significantly higher mortality than those with normal or low D-dimer levels.

Conclusion: In patients with COVID-19, elevated D-dimer was associated with abnormal immunity, underlying disease, increased disease severity, and increased mortality. Taken together, D-dimer may be a marker for the early warning of disease severity and increased risk of death. These findings provide insights into the potential risk of elevated D-dimer in patients with COVID-19.

Meta-Analysis of VTE Risk: Ovarian Cancer Patients by Stage, Histology, Cytoreduction, and Ascites at Diagnosis

Venous thromboembolisms (VTEs) have been a leading secondary cause of death among ovarian cancer patients, prompting multiple studies of risk factors. The objective of this meta-analysis is to quantify the associations between VTE and the most commonly reported risk factors among ovarian cancer patients. PubMed, Embase, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) were used to identify observational studies. Two reviewers independently abstracted data and assessed quality via the Newcastle–Ottawa tool. A random effects model was used to calculate the pooled odds ratios for VTE with each of the following exposures: advanced cancer stage, clear cell histology, serous histology, ascites at diagnosis, and complete cytoreduction. The I² and Q tests were used to evaluate heterogeneity. Twenty cohort studies with 6,324 total ovarian cancer patients, 769 of whom experienced a VTE, were included. The odds of VTE in ovarian cancer patients were higher among patients with cancer stage III/IV (versus cancer stage I/II, pooled odds ratio (OR) 2.73; 95% CI 1.84–4.06; I²= 64%), clear cell (versus nonclear cell) histology (OR 2.11; 95% CI 1.55–2.89; I² = 6%), and ascites (versus no ascites) at diagnosis (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.51–2.96; I² = 32%). Serous (versus nonserous) histology (OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.91–1.75; I² = 42%) and complete (versus incomplete) cytoreduction (OR 1.05; 95% CI 0.27–4.11; I² = 88%) were not associated with VTE. This meta-analysis quantifies the significantly elevated odds of VTE in ovarian cancer patients with advanced stage at diagnosis, clear cell histology, and ascites at diagnosis. Further studies are needed to account for confounders and inform clinical decision-making tools.

Deep vein thrombosis and serum D-dimer after pelvic lymphadenectomy in gynecological cancer

INTRODUCTION

Venous thromboembolism prevention during the perioperative period requires comprehensive risk-level assessment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of deep vein thrombosis and to assess the cut-off levels of serum D-dimer as a screening strategy for deep vein thrombosis during the perioperative period.

METHODS

A total of 205 patients (ovarian cancer: 68, endometrial cancer: 76, cervical cancer: 61) who underwent gynecological surgery, including retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, were enrolled. We retrospectively analyzed the data on the cut-off value of D-dimer assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve preoperatively, and 2 or 3 months, postoperatively. All patients underwent leg vein ultrasonography regardless of the serum D-dimer level. Furthermore, CT scans were performed to evaluate both disease status and venous thromboembolism, including pulmonary thromboembolism. Statistical analyzes were performed using the Mann-Whitney U-test (D-dimer values of each cancer), Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test (incidence of deep vein thrombosis), and one-way analysis of variance (patient characteristics).

RESULTS

A total of 205 patients (ovarian cancer: 68, endometrial cancer: 76, cervical cancer: 61) who underwent gynecological surgery, including retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, were included in the analysis. Deep vein thrombosis rates were significantly higher in patients with ovarian cancer (P<0.001). The postoperative D-dimer value was significantly higher than the preoperative value. Postoperative D-dimer values were also significantly higher in patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy (P=0.001). The cut-off value of D-dimer was 1.55 µg/mL preoperatively (sensitivity, 48.0%; specificity, 94.1%), and this value was higher postoperatively, at 1.95 µg/mL (sensitivity, 37.0%; specificity, 90.9%).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative D-dimer values are higher not only after surgery but also in patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy. The cut-off value of D-dimer at 2 or 3 months postoperatively was higher than preoperative value.

Incidence and risk factors of preoperative venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism in patients with ovarian cancer

INTRODUCTION

To determine the incidence and predisposing factors of preoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE), especially pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with ovarian cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 387 patients with primary ovarian cancer, whose preoperative work up included both ultrasonography of lower extremity vein and spiral computed tomography pulmonary angiogram, from September 2013 to November 2016. SPSS 22 was used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

The incidence of preoperative VTE and PE was 13.4% (52 patients), 9.3%(36 patients), respectively. Both the univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that D-dimer (DDI) level, age, and massive ascites were associated with preoperative VTE. Moreover, DDI level (odds ratio [OR] 3.133, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.193-8.225, p = .02), massive ascites (OR 9.972, 95% CI 3.687-26.968, p < .001), and preoperative deep vein thrombosis (OR 5.977, 95% CI 2.073-17.228, p = .001) were independent predictors for preoperative PE. Additionally, the incidence of preoperative VTE and PE increased with increasing DDI levels (p < .001). DDI level < 1.5 μg/ml has 100% negative predictive value and 100% sensitivity for diagnosis of preoperative VTE and PE; however, DDI >5 μg/ml, the incidence of preoperative VTE and PE were 18.4% and 14.2% respectively. Moreover, DDI value was significantly correlated with preoperative PE volume (r = 0.746, p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative VTE and PE are common events in patients with ovarian cancer. DDI level is a useful parameter for diagnosing and evaluating preoperative VTE and PE.

Incidence and potential predictors of thromboembolic events in epithelial ovarian carcinoma patients during perioperative period

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence and the risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) during the perioperative period.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the patients with epithelial ovarian cancer treated in our hospital, between January 2017 and July 2019, and a comprehensive review of the medical documentation was performed to collect relevant data. We then analyzed the related factors of the thrombosis in the EOC patients, using univariate and multivariate analysis to identify significant risk factors for VTE, and bootstrap resampling method was used to verify the multivariate analysis results. The ROC curve methods were conducted to evaluate the diagnostic value for the prediction of VTE.

RESULTS

We analyzed 233 cases of patients with EOC, of whom the incidence of VTE was 11.16%. According to multivariate and 5000 bootstrap samples analysis, preoperative D-dimer levels (>4.215 μg/ml, p = 0.041 and p = 0.032) and comorbid of cerebral infarction (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) had statistical significance in predicting VTE events; bootstrap analysis also found the Alb, CA125, OCCC had statistical significance. While According to multivariate and 5000 bootstrap samples analysis, age (>50.5 years old, p = 0.019 and p = 0.002) and nonoptimal debulking surgery (p = 0.007 and p = 0.002) showed significance in predicting VTE after surgery; bootstrap analysis also found the D-dimer levels (>4.215 μg/ml) and tuberculosis had statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

More effective thromboprophylaxis and pre-test assessment is necessary for EOC patients. For prediction VTE events, D-dimer levels (>4.215 μg/ml) were the independent predictors before operation. Age and debulking surgery were the independent predictors post operation.

Preoperative plasma D-dimer level is a useful prognostic marker in ovarian cancer

A high pre-treatment plasma D-dimer level was recently identified as a poor prognostic factor in several malignancies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of plasma D-dimer levels in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Data of 199 patients were retrospectively analysed. The relationships between pre-treatment D-dimer levels and other clinical parameters and prognosis were evaluated. Univariate analysis identified age, pre-treatment plasma D-dimer level, massive ascites, residual tumours, pre-treatment CA125 level, histological type, and FIGO stage as predictors of overall survival. The multivariate analysis showed that a high pre-treatment plasma D-dimer level (p=.017), residual tumours (p < .001), and FIGO stage (p = .036) were independent risk factors of overall survival. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) did not influence overall survival (p=.091). High pre-treatment D-dimer levels are associated with a poor prognosis independent of VTE status in EOC patients, and might be a useful prognostic biomarker.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? In recent years, a high pre-treatment plasma D-dimer level has been identified as a prognostic factor in several malignancies, but only a handful of studies have assessed the role of pre-treatment plasma D-dimer levels in patients with EOC patients. Thus, the clinical significance and prognostic value of the plasma D-dimer level in EOC remain controversial, and there is also debate related to the association of the higher mortality rate among cancer patients with elevated D-dimer levels with VTE.What do the results of this study add? In our study, high pre-treatment D-dimer levels are associated with a poor prognosis independently of VTE in EOC patients.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The D-dimer level might emerge as a valuable prognostic biomarker, which will help doctors in the choice of initiating a more aggressive therapy, the combination of chemotherapy with anticoagulation therapy.

Development and validation of a model that includes two ultrasound parameters and the plasma D-dimer level for predicting malignancy in adnexal masses: an observational study

BACKGROUND

Pre-operative discrimination of malignant from benign adnexal masses is crucial for planning additional imaging, preparation, surgery and postoperative care. This study aimed to define key ultrasound and clinical variables and develop a predictive model for calculating preoperative ovarian tumor malignancy risk in a gynecologic oncology referral center. We compared our model to a subjective ultrasound assessment (SUA) method and previously described models.

METHODS

This prospective, single-center observational study included consecutive patients. We collected systematic ultrasound and clinical data, including cancer antigen 125, D-dimer (DD) levels and platelet count. Histological examinations served as the reference standard. We performed univariate and multivariate regressions, and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) to assess the optimal model. Data were split into 2 subsets: training, for model development (190 observations) and testing, for model validation (n = 100).

RESULTS

Among 290 patients, 52% had malignant disease, including epithelial ovarian cancer (72.8%), metastatic disease (14.5%), borderline tumors (6.6%), and non-epithelial malignancies (4.6%). Significant variables were included into a multivariate analysis. The optimal model, included three independent factors: solid areas, the color score, and the DD level. Malignant and benign lesions had mean DD values of 2.837 and 0.354 μg/ml, respectively. We transformed established formulae into a web-based calculator ( http://gin-onc-calculators.com/gynonc.php ) for calculating the adnexal mass malignancy risk. The areas under the curve (AUCs) for models compared in the testing set were: our model (0.977), Simple Rules risk calculation (0.976), Assessment of Different NEoplasias in the adneXa (ADNEX) (0.972), Logistic Regression 2 (LR2) (0.969), Risk of Malignancy Index (RMI) 4 (0.932), SUA (0.930), and RMI3 (0.912).

CONCLUSIONS

Two simple ultrasound predictors and the DD level (also included in a mathematical model), when used by gynecologist oncologist, discriminated malignant from benign ovarian lesions as well or better than other more complex models and the SUA method. These parameters (and the model) may be clinically useful for planning adequate management in the cancer center. The model needs substantial validation.

Analysis of risk factors for deep venous thrombosis in patients with gynecological malignant tumor: A clinical study

Objectives:

To determine the clinical characteristics and risk factors of Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) in patients with gynecological malignant tumor, facilitating gynecologists better prevent the fatal complication.

Methods:

The patients with gynecological malignant tumor treated in department of gynecology of our hospital between May 2013 and May 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. The clinical data of patients including gender, age, tumor staging, adenocarcinoma, surgery, operation time, hypertension, hyperlipemia, diabetes, coronary heart disease, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hospital stay, and postoperative rehabilitation exercise were collected to analyze the clinical characteristics of patients and determine the risk factors of DVT.

Results:

In the current study, 67 patients were included in DVT group, and 554 patients were included in Non-DVT group. There were significant differences in age, hypertension, hyperlipemia, operation time, adenocarcinoma, tumor staging, radiotherapy and postoperative rehabilitation exercises between DVT and non-DVT groups (p<0.05). However, there was no significant differences in gender, coronary heart disease, diabetes, surgical treatment and hospital stay (p>0.05). In multivariate analysis, the factors including age, hypertension, adenocarcinoma, radiotherapy, and hyperlipemia were independent risk factors, while rehabilitation exercise was protective factor for DVT.

Conclusion:

In cases of gynecological malignant tumor, DVT screening should be given due importance, especially for those patients with old age, hypertension, hyperlipemia, adenocarcinoma, or history of radiotherapy. Rehabilitation exercise should be encouraged in these patients.

Application value of Caprini risk assessment model and elevated tumor-specific D-dimer level in predicting postoperative venous thromboembolism for patients undergoing surgery of gynecologic malignancies

AIM

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in gynecologic malignant patients after surgery. We aimed to validate the Caprini risk assessment model (RAM) and elevated tumor-specific D-dimer as predictive marker of postoperative VTE for patients undergoing surgery of gynecologic malignancies.

METHODS

Inpatients were divided into five groups (low: score = 0-1; moderate: score = 2; high: score = 3-4; higher: score = 5-7; sup-high: score > 7) and treated according to their risk level after the surgery during the hospitalization according to the Caprini RAM. D-dimer level was detected during the perioperative period. If D-dimer did not fall to normal reference range on the seventh day after operation, the use of low-molecular-weight heparin was prolonged to 28 days after surgery.

RESULTS

The majority (853/974, 87.6%) of the patients was in the Caprini score ≥5, with an overall VTE incidence of 1.75%. The VTE group had significantly higher Caprini score, CA125, vascular invasion rate and lymph node metastasis rate. If 1.5 μg/mL was used as the D-dimer cut-off value to predicting VTE, the sensitivity was 87.5%, the specificity was 93.8% and the negative predictive value was 99.2%. The D-dimer level was a marker for prolonging the anticoagulants use during the perioperative period, especially for the sup-high group.

CONCLUSION

The Caprini RAM is an effective and reliable VTE risk prediction tool for patients undergoing gynecological malignant tumor surgery. The group (score ≥ 5) can be divided into two subgroups (higher: score = 5-7 and sup-high: score > 7), which may better predict the occurrence of VTE for malignant tumor patients. Great than 1.5 μg/mL D-dimer before operation should be given more attention for the presence of VTE.

Risk factors and treatment of venous thromboembolism in perioperative patients with ovarian cancer in China

The aim of this study was to assess the major risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in Chinese patients with ovarian cancer and to explore optimal methods of prophylaxis and treatment.A retrospective analysis of patients from Qilu Hospital of Shandong University was conducted from January 1, 2014, to January 1, 2017. We analyzed 388 patients who underwent surgery with a final diagnosis of ovarian cancer, of whom 35 developed VTE. Risk factors for preoperative and postoperative VTE were investigated. Preoperative patients with VTE were treated with anticoagulant therapy; chemotherapy with carboplatin paclitaxel was administered for 2 or 3 courses before cytoreductive surgery.Fifteen patients were diagnosed with preoperative VTE and 20 with postoperative VTE. Eight of these 35 patients were also diagnosed with pulmonary embolism (PE), and 1 patient died. Univariate analysis showed differences in age, preoperative D-dimer value, platelet count, preoperative chemotherapy, operative time, and cardiovascular disease according to the presence or absence of VTE. In multivariate analysis, age 55 years and older, tumor diameter greater than 10 cm, preoperative platelet count greater than 300  × 10/L, and a D-dimer value greater than 0.5 μg/mL were independent risk factors for preoperative VTE, whereas a D-dimer value greater than 0.5 μg/mL and surgery time greater than 150 minutes were independent risk factors for postoperative VTE. Four preoperative patients with PE who underwent treatment with anticoagulant therapy and chemotherapy with carboplatin paclitaxel had disappearance of signs of PE and their ascites and mass sizes decreased substantially, leading to subsequent optimal cytoreduction.Preoperative screening and perioperative preventive measures should be taken in gynecological oncology surgery, especially when patients have risk factors identified in this study. For patients with ovarian cancer who have been diagnosed with thrombosis before surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy and anticoagulant drugs can be used to control the progression of thrombosis and cancer.

Risk factors for deep venous thrombosis in women with ovarian cancer

We aim to clarify the incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) before treatment in women with ovarian cancer and identify risk factors for DVT.In this prospective study, 110 women underwent venous ultrasonography before cancer treatment and D-dimer levels were measured. We investigated factors predicting DVT by logistic regression.DVT was detected in 25 of 110 women (22.7%) and pulmonary thromboembolism was coexisted in 2 women (1.8%). A total of 21 women (84.4%) with DVT were asymptomatic. D-dimer levels in women with DVT (median, 10.9; range, <0.5-98.2 μg/mL) were significantly higher than those in women without DVT (2.0; <0.5-60.8 μg/mL; P < .01). When 10.9 μg/mL was used as a cutoff value for D-dimer levels to predict DVT, specificity, sensitivity, and positive and negative predictive values were 92.9%, 52.0%, 68.4%, and 86.8%, respectively. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that D-dimer level (odds ratio [OR], 19.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.89-76.76) and clear cell histology (OR, 7.1; 95% CI, 2.12-25.67) were independent factors predicting DVT.Asymptomatic DVT occurred with great frequency before treatment in patients with ovarian cancer. High D-dimer level and clear cell pathology is associated with a higher DVT risk.

Incidence of and risk factors for preoperative deep venous thrombosis in patients undergoing gastric cancer surgery

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PE) is one of the life-threatening complications of gastric cancer surgery. D-dimer assay is a safe and rapid tool to exclude the presence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). In July 2012, we started preoperative DVT screening of patients scheduled for gastric cancer surgery using a combination of D-dimer measurements and lower extremity venous ultrasonography to prevent PE.

METHODS

Between July 2012 and August 2015, 976 consecutive patients underwent gastric cancer surgery with preoperative D-dimer screening. Lower extremity venous ultrasonography was performed in patients with a positive D-dimer assay result (greater than 1.0 μg/ml). The incidence of and risk factors for preoperative DVT and the incidence of PE were examined in patients undergoing gastric cancer surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 976 patients, 176 (18.0%) showed positive D-dimer assay results, and in 13 (1.3%) DVT was diagnosed by lower extremity ultrasonography. Our analysis identified neoadjuvant chemotherapy as a risk factor for preoperative detection of DVT in patients undergoing gastric cancer surgery (P = 0.021). The incidence of PE was 0.1% (1/976).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative gastric cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy seem to be at higher risk for the development of DVT.

Clinical significance of plasma D-dimer in ovarian cancer: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

D-dimer has been widely used for the diagnosis and prognosis of ovarian cancer, but there is still controversy on its prediction value of ovarian cancer.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the clinical significance of plasma D-dimer level on ovarian cancer systematically.

METHODS

Using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science libraries, all the relevant studies for the diagnostic and prognostic value of plasma D-dimer for ovarian cancer and the relationship between elevated D-dimer level and venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk of ovarian cancer were searched till May 30, 2016. Standardized mean difference (SMD), odds ratio (OR), hazard ratio (HR), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were appropriately pooled.

RESULTS

A total of 15 eligible studies involving a total of 1437 cancer patients were included. No significant association was found between high D-dimer level and overall survival of patients with ovarian cancer (HR 1.32, 95% CI: 0.90-1.95, P  =  .044). However, subgroup analysis indicated that the sample sizes could explain the heterogeneity between studies. And elevated D-dimer could predict increased risk of mortality when the sample sizes were >100 (HR 1.800, 95% CI: 1.283-2.523, P  =  .845). Besides, plasma D-dimer level was significantly higher in malignant ovarian cancer patients compared with benign controls (SMD 0.774, 95% CI: 0.597-0.951, P  =  .39), higher in advanced ovarian cancer patients (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics [FIGO] classification III and IV) than in early stage ovarian cancer patients (FIGO classification I and II, SMD 0.611, 95% CI: 0.373-0.849, P  =  .442). And high D-dimer level indicated high VTE risk (OR 4.068, 95% CI: 2.423-6.829, P  =  .629) of ovarian cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

The plasma D-dimer level in ovarian cancer patients can predict the changes that correlated with disease progression and the VTE risk. But its predictive value for the prognosis of ovarian cancer was significantly dependent on the sample sizes. More well-designed studies with large sample sizes are needed to validate and update the findings of present study.

Routine Hemostasis and Hemogram Parameters: Valuable Assessments for Coagulation Disorder and Chemotherapy in Cancer Patients

Background:

The clotting system abnormalities are the common complication in cancer patients. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the coagulation state, clinical features, and treatment in cancer patients by routine tests.

Methods:

A total of 2328 patients with different types of cancer were classified as the positive group (n = 1419, including 53 patients with thrombosis) and the negative group (n = 909) based on D-dimer (DD) value. Of the 2328 cases, 354 were admitted for chemotherapy. Hemostasis test and complete blood count (CBC) were performed during treatment or following-up.

Results:

This study showed that the hypercoagulable state was affected not only by clinical staging (P < 0.0001) but also by metastasis site (P < 0.0001 for bone vs. lung). Compared to negative DD group, the higher fibrinogen level, the extended activated partial thromboplastin time, and prothrombin time interacted markedly with disease clinical stage (P < 0.05) in the positive group. Between positive DD groups with and without thrombus, the significantly statistic difference in white blood cell (WBC) and DD (P < 0.05) rather than in red blood cell (RBC) and platelet count was observed. However, the higher DD level was not correlated with WBC, RBC, and platelet count in the positive DD group. Furthermore, the hypercoagulable plasma profile in cancer patients was moderated 2–3 weeks after chemotherapy (P < 0.05 for first six cycles).

Conclusions:

The routine hemostatic parameters and CBC are valuable to assessment for thrombosis and chemotherapy even for disease prognosis.

Evaluation of D-Dimer in Screening Deep Vein Thrombosis in Hospitalized Japanese Patients with Acute Medical Diseases/Episodes

Objective: To investigate the usefulness of D-dimer as a screening method as well as to explore potent predictors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in hospitalized Japanese patients with acute medical diseases/episodes. Methods and Subjects: This study was a multi-center, prospective, observational study. The inclusion criteria were hospitalized patients at high risk of developing venous thromboembolism with; (1) congestive heart failure, acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, infectious diseases, or inflammatory diseases, (2) bed rest ≥4 days, and (3) ≥60 years old. D-dimer was measured on the same day as ultrasonography. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate predictors associated with the presence of DVT. Results: Sixty-nine patients were enrolled. The prevalence of DVT was 33.3% (23/69; 95% C.I., 19.4% to 47.3%). D-dimer was measured in 42 patients and the sensitivity and negative predictive value reached 100%, while the specificity (13.3%) and positive predictive value (31.6%) were low (cut-off value: 0.9 or 1.0 µg/mL). Statistically significant predictor was not assigned. Conclusion: As the sensitivity and negative predictive value of D-dimer reached 100%, D-dimer have a role in excluding patients who might otherwise undergo diagnostic imaging for DVT in hospitalized Japanese patients with acute medical diseases/episodes.

Multivariate Analysis of Prognostic Biomarkers in Surgically Treated Endometrial Cancer

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers with prognostic value in the setting of surgically treated endometrial cancer.

METHODS

Medical data for 282 patients with surgically treated endometrial cancer were reviewed retrospectively. Preoperative concentrations of six serum biomarkers (CA125, CA15-3, C-reactive protein [CRP], D-dimer [D-D], platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio [PLR], and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR]) were analysed to determine potential associations with clinicopathologic characteristics and to assess prognostic values separately via Kaplan-Meier method and multivariate Cox regression.

RESULTS

In univariate analyses, the 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 86.5% for a maximum follow-up period of 75 months. High concentrations of CA125, CA15-3, CRP, D-D, PLR, and NLR each proved significantly predictive of poor survival (log-rank test, P<0.01). CRP and D-D were identified as independent prognosticators, using a Cox regression model. Study patients were then stratified (based on combined independent risk factors) into three tiers (P<0.001), marked by 5-year OS rates of 92.1%, 78.4%, and 33.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

All serum biomarkers assessed (CA125, CA15-3, CRP, D-D, PLR, and NLR) proved to be valid prognostic indices of surgically treated endometrial cancer. A novel prognostic grouping system, incorporating independent risk factors (CRP and D-D Concentrations), may have merit in assessing these patients preoperatively, providing a biologic basis for improved clinical staging.

Thrombosis and cancer: emerging data for the practicing oncologist

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recently updated clinical practice guidelines on the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with cancer. Although several new studies have been reported, many questions remain about the close relationship between VTE and malignant disease. The risk of VTE among patients with cancer continues to increase and is clearly linked to patient-, disease- and treatment-specific factors. In general, VTE among patients with cancer is treated in a similar fashion to that in other patient populations. However, the greater risk of VTE in patients with cancer, the multitude of risk factors, and the greater risk of VTE recurrence and mortality among patients with cancer pose important challenges for surgeons, oncologists, and other providers.