The coagulation system and angiogenesis

Abstract

In 1865, Armand Trousseau recognized the relationship between an activated coagulation system and malignancy [1]. He suggested that patients presenting with idiopathic venous thrombosis might be harboring an occult cancer. Numerous recent studies have also demonstrated an increased odds ratio of patients with idiopathic venous thromboembolic disease having an occult malignancy (i.e. [2]). Venous thromboembolic disease (VTE) is the second most common cause of death in cancer patients, after deaths from the underlying malignancy [3]. The prevalence of VTE depends on tumor type and treatment received. Recent studies note that activation of the coagulation system, in addition to predisposing to VTE, may also contribute directly to the growth of primary and metastatic cancers, in large part by promoting angiogenesis. In this chapter, we will review the role of platelets and the coagulation system in promoting tumor-associated angiogenesis. We will also discuss the effects of anticoagulation on angiogenesis and the effects of antiangiogenesis therapy on the coagulation system and risk of thrombosis. © 2009 Springer-Verlag US.