Low-molecular-weight heparin in the management of Trousseau's syndrome

Abstract

Background: Thrombophlebitis migrans is a major cause of morbidity in approximately 11% of patients with cancer. Thrombosis may predate the appearance of malignancy, and patients with thrombosis often respond poorly to warfarin.

Methods: Four patients with extensive thrombosis and cancer are described in this article. Enoxaparin, a low-molecular-weight heparin, was administered subcutaneously to these patients for 5, 6, 26, and 27 months, respectively. The literature on the management of Trousseau's syndrome was reviewed and analyzed.

Results: All four patients remained free of venous thromboembolism while being treated with low-molecular-weight heparin, acutely and during follow-up. Previously published studies suggest that therapy with low-molecular-weight heparin results in lower mortality than standard heparin therapy.

Conclusions: Further study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of low-molecular-weight heparin for both prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolism in association with malignancy may lead to decreased morbidity and better quality of life for patients with this disorder.