In a nutshell
This study examined the link between the size of platelets in the blood and the development of venous thromboembolism in patients treated for newly diagnosed Hodgkin lymphoma. The main finding was that patients with larger platelets before chemotherapy were less likely to develop venous thromboembolism.
Some background
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients commonly develop venous thromboembolism (VTE; meaning blood clotting in the veins). VTE increase risk of tumor growth, reduces survival, and is linked to poor prognosis. Platelets are cell parts in the blood responsible for clotting. The size of platelets in the blood, known as mean platelet volume (MPV), has been linked to the development of VTE. It is important to reseearch if this is relevant in patients with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
Methods & findings
One hundred and sixty-seven patients treated for HL were included. Mean platelet volume, development of VTE, patient survival and disease stage were assessed for an average of 44 months.
During treatment, 92.8 % of patients did not develop VTE and 92% survived for the duration of the study. Patients who did not develop VTE had significantly higher MPV values before chemotherapy than those who did develop VTE. Patients whose MPV was higher than most patients, were more likely to develop VTE. Patients with advanced HL (stage III and IV) and bulky disease (large lymph nodes) were also more likely to develop VTE.
The bottom line
This study suggested that higher mean platelet volume values before chemotherapy may be linked to lower risk of venous thromboembolism during treatment of patients with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
The fine print
Only Caucasian patients were included in this study. Therefore, the results may not apply to HL patients of other populations.
What’s next?
If you have questions about Hodgkin's lymphoma, please ask your physician.
Published By :
Oncotarget
Date :
Apr 20, 2018
