Do lung cancer patients require routine anticoagulation treatment? A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE: We conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the utility of anticoagulant treatment in lung cancer patients. METHOD: We retrieved studies focused on thrombosis and lung cancer by searching electronic databases. We evaluated the impact of thrombosis on the prognosis of lung cancer patients, assessed the efficacy and effect of anticoagulation treatment in lung cancer patients, and investigated risk factors for thrombosis in lung cancer patients. RESULT: Lung cancer patients with thrombosis have a significantly worse overall survival. Anticoagulant treatment did not improve the prognosis of lung cancer patients. Although anticoagulant treatment was associated with a reduced incidence of venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism, there was an increased risk of hemorrhage in this population. The risk factors for thrombosis in lung cancer patients are adenocarcinoma, advanced tumor stage, and high serum levels of d-dimer. CONCLUSION: Anticoagulation treatment in lung cancer patients should be more individualized. Routine anticoagulant treatment is not recommended.