Abstract
The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in children is increasing. Hospitalized
infants and adolescents are at highest risk, and most individuals who have VTE have
multiple thrombotic risk factors. The presence of a central venous catheter (CVC)
is the most frequent risk factor for childhood thrombosis. Childhood VTE has significant
consequences in relation to the thrombotic event and the anticoagulant therapy used
for its treatment. Identification of the most prevalent risk factors for VTE, particularly
among adolescents, has moved the focus toward prevention of thrombosis. Risk assessment
models have been developed to identify individuals who are at higher risk with a view
to employing preventative strategies such as mechanical and chemical thromboprophylaxis
(TP). There is currently little evidence to support the efficacy of such strategies
for preventing either CVC-associated thrombosis or thrombosis at other sites. In addition,
there are concerns about adverse consequences of mechanical and chemical TP in a population
where the overall incidence of VTE remains low.
Keywords
anticoagulants - pediatrics - risk assessment - thromboprophylaxis - venous thromboembolism
