Incidence and Potential Risk Factors of Catheter Associated Thrombosis in Solid Tumors

PurposeCentral venous catheters (CVCs) have become common practice in oncology. Besides their benefits, as an invasive procedure, several complications are associated with them. Catheter associated thrombosis (CAT) is one of the most relevant due to their impact in quality of life and mortality, but the prothrombotic risk factors implied have been poorly assessed. The aim of the study is to evaluate the incidence of upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) associated to catheter use in patients with solid tumors. Secondary endpoints are to describe the population using CVCs and to evaluate potential risk factors of CAT. MethodsPatients diagnosed of solid tumors assisted at a tertiary level hospital between 2016 and 2019, and using CVCs were included.Results455 patients were enrolled. The incidence of CAT was 5.49% (25) in the whole population. 5.05% (23) was associated with PICC while 0.44% (2) was due to PORT use. Among the factors included in the univariate and multivariate regression models, age ≥50 years and PORT use were identified as protective factors related to the development of CAT.ConclusionCVCs remains a safe approach for the delivering of treatments in patients with solid tumors. Age ≤50 and use of PICC are risk factors for developing CAT. Larger prospective studies are needed to identify additional risk factors of CAT.