[Venous thromboembolism in children]

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism is a rare condition in children, but the incidence appears to be increasing. Newborns and teenagers are at the highest risk of thrombosis, which is often triggered by a combination of risk factors, in particular: infection, central venous line or chemotherapy. The impact of thrombophilia is uncertain. International guidelines recommend screening for thrombophilia as part of the diagnostic set-up in children with thrombosis. Treatment of paediatric thrombosis with low-molecular-weight heparin appears safe, but the effectiveness remains to be established.