Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme and Associated Risk Factors: A retrospective Chart Review

A retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) at the Juravinski Cancer Centre was performed with the primary objective to assess the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in newly diagnosed GBM. The secondary objective was to identify patients at higher risk of developing VTE who might benefit from prophylactic anticoagulation. This was a single-centre, retrospective cohort study. The charts of 528 patients diagnosed with GBM at the JCC from an 8-year period from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2020 were reviewed. Information on the following factors was collected: date of diagnosis and time to death or last follow-up, location and size of tumour, degree of resection, presence of and location of weakness, performance status, treatments administered, body mass index, comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking history), and baseline blood counts. A total of 528 patients were identified. 111 patients (21%) were diagnosed with VTE. Most VTE (87%) occurred within 12 months of diagnosis. A previous cancer diagnosis and recurrence or disease progression were the only factors identified as predictive of a higher risk for development thrombosis. Newly diagnosed patients with GBM have been shown to have a significant risk of developing VTE. Consideration should be given for prophylactic anticoagulation at the time of diagnosis.