Incidence and Risk Factors for Arterial Thrombosis in Patients with Acute Leukemia and Lymphoid Malignancies: A Retrospective Single-Center Study

Abstract

Introduction: The treatment of patients with hematological malignancies and acute arterial thrombosis (ATE) is challenging due to the risk of bleeding complications during treatment. Data on the incidence and risk factors for ATE in this group are very limited. Aims: We aimed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for ATE in patients with acute leukemia (AL) and lymphoid malignancies. Material and Methods: Patients with acute leukemia (AL), lymphoid malignancies, and ATE diagnosed following cancer diagnosis, who were treated and followed at the Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital, 2005–2020, were candidates for inclusion in this study. Retrospective data on malignancy, ATE, and risk factors were collected. Results: No differences in either the 15-year incidence of ATE (1.4%) nor in the risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) between patients with AL and lymphoid malignancies and ATE were found. ATE at diagnosis was more frequent in patients with AL and lymphoid malignancies (excluding chronic lymphatic leukemia, CLL). Conclusions: Patients with AL and lymphoid malignancies have a similar risk of ATE when compared to each other and the general population, regardless of platelet levels. No difference could be found in the presence of CVD risk factors between patients with AL and lymphoid malignancies presenting with ATE.