Platelet release of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in patients undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer

doi:10.1186/2040-2384-1-7

Journal of Angiogenesis Research

Volume 1

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Research

Platelet release of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in patients undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer

Cliona C Kirwan¹ , Gerard J Byrne¹ , Shant Kumar² and Garry McDowell¹^,3

¹Department of Academic Surgery, South Manchester University Hospitals NHS Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, Southmoor Road, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK

²Department of Pathology, University of Manchester and Christie Hospital, Manchester Medical School, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK

³British Institute of Technology and E-Commerce, Romford Road, London, E7 9HZ, UK

author email corresponding author email

Journal of Angiogenesis Research 2009, 1:7doi:10.1186/2040-2384-1-7


Published:	24 October 2009

Abstract

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) following breast cancer chemotherapy is common. Chemotherapy-induced alterations in markers of haemostasis occur during chemotherapy. In this study we investigated the changes in serum and plasma VEGF, together with platelet release of VEGF and related these to the development of VTE at 3 months.

Methods

Serum and plasma VEGF, together with platelet release of VEGF were measured prior to chemotherapy and at 24 hours; four-, eight days and three months following commencement of chemotherapy in early and advanced breast cancer patients and in age and sex matched controls. Duplex ultrasound imaging was performed after one month or if symptomatic.

Results

Of 123 patients 9.8% developed VTE within three months. Serum and plasma VEGF were increased in advanced breast cancer as was platelet release of VEGF. Prior to chemotherapy a 100 μg/ml increase in serum VEGF was associated with a 40% increased risk of VTE, while a 10 μg/ml increase in plasma VEGF was associated with a 20% increased risk of VTE. Serum VEGF showed a different response to chemotherapy in those who developed VTE.

Conclusion

A group of patients at risk of VTE could be identified, allowing targeted thrombopropylaxis. Whether or not the response in VEGF during chemotherapy has any angiogenic significance remains to be elucidated.