[Pathogenesis of venous thromboembolic disease in cancer]

Abstract

Cancer is a real model of acquired hypercoagulable state. A close interaction exists between venous thromboembolic disease and cancer. Tumor progression is associated with an activation of coagulation and fibrinoformation which are both implicated in cancer proliferation and metastasis dissemination. The pathogenesis of haemostatic troubles described in cancer patients is particularly complex and it reflects the multiple connexions with inflammation and hemostasis systems. In this review, we will identify the numerous factors inducing such a prothrombotic state and the reason why their combined action contributes to cancer development. The relation between cancer and thrombosis seems reciprocal: cancer predisposes to thrombosis and tumor progression is deeply linked to this hypercoagulable state.