TROUSSEAUS-SYNDROME IN ASSOCIATION WITH OVARIAN-CARCINOMA

BACKGROUND. The association of neoplastic disease and thromboembolic d isorders was first recognized by Trousseau in 1865. Abnormalities of b lood coagulation tests have been reported in the majority of patients with cancer, including ovarian carcinoma. However, Trousseau's syndrom e has rarely been reported in women with ovarian carcinoma. METHODS. A literature search for cases of Trousseau's syndrome in association wi th ovarian carcinoma was performed using the MEDLINE database. Case no tes of patients with ovarian carcinoma treated at St. George's Hospita l were reviewed and cases of Trousseau's syndrome identified. RESULTS. We report a series of 4 cases of Trousseau's syndrome in association with ovarian carcinoma occurring over a 3- to 4-year period, and highl ight the particular difficulties associated with the management of the se thromboembolic effects. CONCLUSIONS. Trousseau's syndrome can impai r quality of life in patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma, and enh anced anticoagulation regimens may be required for effective palliatio n. (C) 1996 American Cancer Society.