A recent article discussed the relationship between cancer and incidental pulmonary embolism (IPE). In the study, it was found that cancer patients who have this comorbid condition should ask their specialist for a long-term anticoagulant treatment. Analysts found that the risk of developing symptomatic recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) doubled among patients who did not receive an anticoagulant treatment.

1. A recent article discussed the relationship between cancer and incidental pulmonary embolism (IPE).
In the study, it was found that cancer patients who have this comorbid condition should ask their
specialist for a long-term anticoagulant treatment. Analysts found that the risk of developing
symptomatic recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) doubled among patients who did not receive
an anticoagulant treatment.
Most importantly, the study confirmed the possible side effects of two common types of
anticoagulation treatments. These are low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and vitamin K
antagonist. Data showed that patients who take vitamin K have a higher risk of major bleeding as
compared to those undergoing LMWH.
IPE is said to occur in around 3 percent of all cancer patients, regardless of type or stage. Perhaps
because of this low percentage or maybe because of the lack of studies analyzing the relationship
between the two (as of the moment), treatment options designed for cancer-related IPE is limited.
New study links cancer-related incidental pulmonary embolism to VTE
Image Source: radiopaedia.org
Image Source: instituteofcancerpolicy.org

2. Medication and diagnosis is largely based on small observational studies.
Authors of the study agree that the results need to be further analyzed and tested. They note that
there may be some ethical obstacles, but clarify that emphasis should be placed on cancer-related
IPE. They resolve that unless greater importance is placed on this relationship, people of this
condition will not receive the proper treatment. This may or may not delay their recovery period.
As of now though, health professionals and pulmonary internists highly recommend the use of
LMWH to treat cancer-related IPE. This treatment option significantly reduces the risk of developing
VTE or any major bleeding.
Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon is a recognized internist, specializing in pulmonary medicine. Like
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Image Source: nebraskamed.com