Thromboembolic Risk and High Prothrombotic Factors in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with Ischemic Stroke: A Literature Review of Personalized and Institutional Approaches to Prophylaxis.

Abstract

Background: Although thromboembolic complications are recognized in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), ischemic strokes are rare but severe events. These life-threatening complications not only pose an immediate risk but can also result in long-term neurological deficits, significantly impacting a patient's quality of life. Identifying high-risk patients and implementing effective prophylaxis strategies are crucial for improving patient outcomes. In addition to strokes, these patients are also at risk of other embolic and thrombotic events, which can occur in up to 35% of patients. Despite this, there are still no clear guidelines for prophylactic management in pediatric patients treated for oncologic diseases. Results: Using the example of a 14-year-old male treated for ALL who suffered an ischemic stroke, we conducted a review of the literature on embolic and thrombotic events, neurological complications, methods of prevention, and ways to monitor and detect patients with an increased risk of such difficulties. We outlined our approach to the monitoring of prothrombotic factors, the interpretation of their levels, and the subsequent adjustment to prophylactic management based on these findings. As a result of this review, we reached two basic conclusions. First, thromboembolic episodes are not uncommon complications in pediatric patients and can cause long-lasting consequences, even after the cancer is cured. Secondly, despite such an urgent problem, clinicians are still struggling with the question of monitoring prothrombotic factors, the choice of drug, and the duration of prophylaxis. Their decisions depend on the experience of the treating center. Conclusions: The pediatric population being treated for malignant disease urgently requires the establishment of guidelines that standardize the management of thromboembolic events.