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Semin Thromb Hemost 2006; 32(7): 724-728
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-951457
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Thrombosis and Thrombophilia in Children: A Systematic Review

Daniela Tormene1 , Sabrina Gavasso1 , Valeria Rossetto1 , Paolo Simioni1
  • 1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua Medical School, Padua, Italy
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Publication History

Publication Date:
06 October 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Thrombotic events are uncommon disorders in childhood but increasingly recognized due to the progress made in the understanding of the hemostasis system and the importance of thromboembolic disorders in children. Multiple clinical underlying conditions and prothrombotic disorders contribute to the development of thrombosis in neonates and children. In recent years programs have emerged that specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of thrombosis in children. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the risk factors for thromboembolic events in the venous and arterial systems in children, the use of antithrombotic prophylaxis, and the role of thrombophilia. First, the clinical manifestations and the problems of diagnosing venous thromboembolic diseases and cerebrovascular diseases in children are reviewed. The prophylactic use of anticoagulants in children is also discussed. Unfortunately there are no large prospective randomized trials in children, thus guidelines are based on small studies or on extrapolation of data from adults. Second, the impact of prothrombotic defects in pediatric patients and the issue of routine testing for these disturbances are reviewed.

KEYWORDS

Thrombosis - children - risk factors - thrombophilia

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Daniela TormeneM.D. 

Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Chair of Internal Medicine

via Ospedale 105, 35128 Padua, Italy

Email: daniela.tormene@unipd.it