Practical considerations for the use of direct oral anticoagulants in oncology patients

Abstract

Oncology patients are at a high risk of experiencing venous thromboembolism. Historically, venous thromboembolisms in cancer patients have been managed with low-molecular-weight heparin on the basis of the CLOT trial published in 2003. However, recent prospective data provide evidence for safe and effective direct oral anticoagulant use in this population. The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the current body of literature surrounding direct oral anticoagulant use in the oncology population and to highlight key practical considerations when prescribing these agents for patients with cancer.

Keywords: Anticoagulation; DOAC; cancer-associated VTE; hemorrhage; venous thromboembolism.