Kuderer NM et al. -No studies have been conducted regarding a comprehensive assessment of risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) or early mortality in lung cancer patients undergoing systemic chemotherapy. In the current study, several demographic, geographic, and clinical factors were shown to be independent risk factors for VTE and early mortality in patients with lung cancer.

Methods

• Clinical data were collected from lung cancer patients undergoing new cancer therapy until the 6-month follow-up.
• The impact of patient-, disease-, and treatment-related factors on the occurrence of VTE and early mortality was evaluated.

Results

• Of 1980 patients with lung cancer, 84% had non-small cell lung cancer.
• During the first 6 months, 121 patients developed a VTE (6.1%), of which 47% had pulmonary embolism, 46% deep vein thrombosis, 3% catheter-associated thrombosis, and 4% visceral thrombosis.
• Independent predictors for VTE included female gender, North America location, leg immobilization, and presence of a central venous catheter.
• During the study period, 472 patients died, representing 20%, 24%, 36%, and 25% with VTE-RS 1, 2, ≥3, or unknown, respectively.
• Independent predictors of early mortality included older age, smoking history, COPD, ECOG PS greater than or equal to 2, metastatic disease, and VTE-RS.