An overview of the NCCN and ASCO guidelines on cancer-associated venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication of cancer and its treatment. The National Comprehensive Cancer Center Network (NCCN) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) have published evidence-based guidelines on the management of VTE in the cancer patient. This paper will review the literature basis and substance of the NCCN and ASCO guidelines. Topics include the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of deep and superficial vein thrombosis, catheter-associated thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Management of recurrent thromboembolism and the use of anticoagulation to improve cancer survival as well as indications for thrombolytic therapy and vena cava filters are also reviewed.