Tamoxifen-Associated Risk for Thromboembolism: Importance of Factor V Leiden Mutation

Clinicians should consider testing for thrombophilic mutations before prescribing adjuvant therapy with tamoxifen for patients with breast cancer.

When used as adjuvant therapy for breast cancer, tamoxifen raises risk for thromboembolic events (TEs; Journal Watch Womens Health May 13 2010). The most common inherited clotting-factor mutation, factor V Leiden (FVL), is present in as many as 5% of non-Hispanic whites. In a U.S. multicenter case-control study, researchers assessed FVL status in 124 women with TEs documented during use of adjuvant tamoxifen for breast cancer (cases); each case was paired with two adjuvant tamoxifen users with no known TEs (controls) who were matched for age at diagnosis.

FVL was identified in 18.5% of cases (23) and 4.8% of controls (12). Multivariable regression analysis showed that likelihood of experiencing a TE was higher among women who carried FVL tha…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Tamoxifen-Associated Risk for Thromboembolism: Importance of Factor V Leiden Mutation

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Reviewing Author