Venous thromboembolism in children

Abstract

With improved pediatric survival from serious underlying illnesses, greater use of invasive vascular procedures and devices, and a growing awareness that vascular events occur among the young, venous thromboembolism (VTE) increasingly is recognized as a critical pediatric concern. This review provides background on etiology and epidemiology in this disorder, followed by an indepth discussion of approaches to the clinical characterization, diagnostic evaluation, and management of pediatric VTE. Prognostic indicators and long-term outcomes are considered, with emphasis on available evidence underlying current knowledge and key questions for further investigation.