Multiple myeloma (MM) is the tumor of plasma cells that accounts for approximately 10% of hematological malignancies. During the clinical course of MM, hemorrhagic symptoms are described in 15- 30% of patients, due to several causes. Until 1999, it was reported that up 10% of patients with active MM had venous thromboembolic events. Nevertheless, since the introduction of thalidomide in the therapeutic arsenal of MM, an important increase of the incidence of arterial and venous thrombotic events were described (up 35%), especially when used in association with other drugs. Several pharmacological thromboprophylactic measures have been introduced in order to decrease these events, but with variable results. The most adequate antithrombotic regimen has not yet been demonstrated. Recently the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) developed a survey among its members, resulting in some therapeutic recommendations. This review about hemostatic abnormalities in multiple myeloma had the intention of discussing the different mechanisms responsible for hemorrhagic and thrombotic events in MM, the pharmacological thrombophophylactic measures reported, their results and the recent recommendations of the IMWG.
Multiple myeloma; thalidomide; venous thromboembolism; thromboprophylaxis; low molecular weight heparin; aspirin; warfarin
