Stavrianna Diavati , Marios Sagris, Dimitrios Terentes-Printzios* and Charalambos Vlachopoulos Pages 296 - 305 ( 10 )
Venous thromboembolism (VTE), clinically presented as deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), constitutes a major global healthcare concern with severe complications, long-term morbidity, and mortality. Although several clinical, genetic, and acquired risk factors for VTE have been identified, the molecular pathophysiology and mechanisms of disease progression remain poorly understood. Anticoagulation has been the cornerstone of therapy for decades, but data is sparse regarding primary and secondary VTE prevention, as well as optimal therapy duration. In this review, we discuss the role of factor Xa in the coagulation cascade and the different choices of anticoagulation therapy based on patients’ predisposing risk factors and risk of event recurrence. Further, we compare newer agents to traditional anticoagulation treatment based on the most recent studies and guidelines.
Venous thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, treatment options, duration, direct oral anticoagulants
Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, General Hospital of Nikaia, Piraeus, Athens, Oxford Heart Centre, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens