Diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolic disease in children. Recommendations from the Thromboembolic Disease Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI), the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (SETH) and the Spanish Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (SEHOP).

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in children is a rare condition. It encompasses different clinical scenarios that require an individualized and multidisciplinary approach. The aim of this document is to provide a practical guideline for the management of pediatric VTE based on the best available evidence. METHODS: An exhaustive literature review was performed, gathering information from current clinical guidelines and recent studies. RESULT: This document compiles the recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of VTE in infants, children, and adolescents endorsed by the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI), the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (SETH), and the Spanish Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (SEHOP). Neonatal VTE, arterial thrombosis, and superficial venous thrombosis are beyond the scope of this work. DISCUSSION: This document includes a list of definitions aimed at standardizing terminology and another two distinct sections: (1) particularities of treatment, including recommendations regarding dosing, monitoring and cautions in the pediatric population, and (2) particularities in management, including specific recommendations for the most frequent scenarios in children.