Upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis arising in the setting of active malignancy is a distinct clinical entity. Cancer-associated UEDVT warrants a specific anticoagulation strategy that differs from standard non-cancer DVT management.
This protocol applies to patients with confirmed upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis in the context of active cancer — a population in which both the choice of anticoagulant and the planned duration of therapy are guided by the underlying malignancy.
Management centres on extended anticoagulation with a preferred anticoagulant class specifically recommended in the cancer-associated setting, rather than standard oral agents.
DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.111.051276
In patients with cancer-associated UEDVT, extended LMWH monotherapy is preferred over the administration of vitamin K antagonists.
Anticoagulation therapy should be continued as long as the cancer remains active if the thrombotic event was not related to a central venous catheter.