Thrombophlebitis and Cancer

Abstract

Thrombophlebitis has been associated with virtually all cancers, especially gastrointestinal, urogenital, and lung neoplasms. Although occurring in frequently in cancer patients, thrombophlebitis may appear before the cancer has become symptomatic and may lead to an earlier diagnosis of cancer. The phlebitic syndrome associated with cancer, although not unique, is distinctive. It is often recurrent and migratory, often involves unusual locations, and is often resistant to anticoagulation therapy. Pul monary emboli are frequent complications. The pathogenesis of phlebitis in cancer patients is not well understood. Evidence suggests that many cancer patients are hypercoagulable, with abnormalities in platelets, coag ulation factors, and the fibrinolytic system. These changes may result from the elaboration of thromboplastin-like substances from the cancer tissue.