The Clinical Applicability of Primary Thromboprophylaxis in Ambulatory Patients With Pancreatic Cancer

Abstract

Thromboembolism is a leading cause of death in ambulatory patients with cancer. Patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma have a very high risk of developing venous thromboembolism, especially within the first 6 months of diagnosis. Although primary thromboprophylaxis could reduce this risk, there are unresolved questions concerning choice of agents for anticoagulation, duration of anticoagulation treatment, and criteria for patient selection. Furthermore, the current clinical guidelines on primary thromboprophylaxis in ambulatory patients with pancreatic cancer are ambiguous. This review seeks out to understand and critically appraise the evidence supporting the use of primary thromboprophylaxis in patients with pancreatic cancer and its clinical applicability.