Systematic review of studies of venous thromboembolism in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogenous group of tumors with unique biological characteristics and complications, including thromboembolism. A systematic review of 33 studies of NEN patients found that the prevalence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) ranged from 7.5% to 33% across studies. The most common VTEs were deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and portal vein thrombosis. In meta-analysis of 6 studies, the pooled VTE prevalence was 11.1% (95% CI 9,07-13.53). Pancreatic NENs exhibited the highest thrombotic burden. Functioning tumors, including glucagonomas and ACTH-secreting NENs, were strongly associated with VTEs. The authors conclude that VTE is a significant complication in NEN patients.