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Semin Thromb Hemost 2008; 34(3): 282-285
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1082272
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Antiphospholipid Antibodies and Antiphospholipid Syndrome in Patients with Malignancies: Features, Incidence, Identification, and Treatment

Wolfgang Miesbach1
  • 1Medical Clinic III, Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
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Publication History

Publication Date:
21 August 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Thrombotic events associated with antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies can be the first manifestation of malignancy. The pathologic significance of aPL antibodies in patients with malignancies, however, is still unclear. It remains an unresolved issue as to whether the presence of aPL antibodies may be considered as an “epiphenomenon” of the malignancy itself or whether it contributes directly to the development of thrombosis in these patients.

In particular, solid tumors may be associated with the development of aPL antibodies, enhancing the thrombophilic risk in these patients. In general, routine anticoagulant prophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin in cancer patients with positive aPL antibodies is strongly indicated.

KEYWORDS

Malignancy - thrombosis - antiphospholipid syndrome - antiphospholipid antibodies - treatment

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Wolfgang MiesbachM.D. 

Medical Clinic III, Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University

Frankfurt/Main, Department of Medicine III, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt/Main, Germany

Email: wolfgang.miesbach@kgu.de

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