Semin Thromb Hemost 2003; 29(2): 219-226
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-38838
Copyright © 2003 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Oral Contraceptives and Inherited Thrombophilia: A Gene-Environment Interaction with a Risk of Venous Thrombosis?

Melvin R. Mac Gillavry1 , Martin H. Prins2
  • 1Physician, Department of Internal Medicine, Slotervaart Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
  • 2Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Academic Hospital Maastricht, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
23 April 2003 (online)

Preview

ABSTRACT

There are indications in the literature that asymptomatic women with an inherited thrombophilic defect who use oral contraceptive have an increased risk of venous thrombosis. There are no consistent data regarding the thrombotic risk in users of oral contraceptives with an inherited thrombophilic defect and personal history of venous thrombosis. Selective genetic screening on the basis of clinical judgment, and family and personal history, instead of universal screening, may be useful before oral contraceptives are prescribed. Nonetheless, the actual risks and benefits of such practice remain to be examined.

REFERENCES