Cancer progression and tumor hypercoagulability: a platelet perspective

J Thromb Thrombolysis. 2024 Aug;57(6):959-972. doi: 10.1007/s11239-024-02993-0. Epub 2024 May 17.

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism, which is common in cancer patients and accompanies or even precedes malignant tumors, is known as cancer-related thrombosis and is an important cause of cancer- associated death. At present, the exact etiology of the elevated incidence of venous thrombosis in cancer patients remains elusive. Platelets play a crucial role in blood coagulation, which is intimately linked to the development of arterial thrombosis. Additionally, platelets contribute to tumor progression and facilitate immune evasion by tumors. Tumor cells can interact with the coagulation system through various mechanisms, such as producing hemostatic proteins, activating platelets, and directly adhering to normal cells. The relationship between platelets and malignant tumors is also significant. In this review article, we will explore these connections.

Keywords: Cancer; Coagulation; PD-L1; Platelets; VTE.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Coagulation / physiology
  • Blood Platelets* / metabolism
  • Blood Platelets* / pathology
  • Disease Progression*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / blood
  • Neoplasms* / complications
  • Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Thrombophilia* / blood
  • Thrombophilia* / etiology