Assessment of provider practices regarding venous thromboembolism management and prevention in pediatric acute leukemia patients

Despite the known occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the pediatric oncology population, there are no leukemia-specific VTE treatment guidelines. The primary objective of this study was to assess current practices regarding the management and prevention of VTE in the pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) population. We performed a cross sectional, anonymous, electronic survey of members of the American Society of Hematology and the pediatric subcommittee of VENUS (VTE Network US of the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society). Survey items included questions on demographics and clinical practice. Of 870 surveys distributed, 154 were submitted, giving a 17.7% response rate. Treatment duration, re-imaging timeline, and class of anticoagulants used were reported for catheter-associated deep vein thrombus, pulmonary embolism, and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. While there are some common themes regarding VTE management, there is notable variation in the overall practice as well as with the decision to continue anticoagulation in the presence of thrombocytopenia. Given the variation seen, a multi-center, prospective clinical trial is urgently needed for developing consensus guidelines for the management of VTE in children with ALL.