skip to main content

Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism — RCPSC IM MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardHematologyCancer-associated venous thromboembolismRCPSC IM

A 68-year-old man with pancreatic cancer develops new dyspnoea and pleuritic pain. CT pulmonary angiography confirms bilateral segmental pulmonary emboli. Platelets are 132 x 10^9/L, creatinine clearance is 48 mL/min, and there is no gastrointestinal bleeding. He is receiving palliative chemotherapy. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Therapeutic anticoagulation with a low-molecular-weight heparin or selected DOAC

Cancer-associated thrombosis requires therapeutic anticoagulation unless bleeding risk is prohibitive. Low-molecular-weight heparin or an appropriately selected DOAC is used, with attention to gastrointestinal bleeding risk and interactions.

Reference: Thrombosis Canada VTE clinical guides