Membrane microparticles in VTE and cancer

Microparticles (MPs) are cellular vesicles produced by all cells in response to apoptosis or cellular activation. In this brief review, the evidence that MPs mediate the thrombotic propensity that characterizes patients with cancer is evaluated. It is concluded that while considerable data exist to support a critical pathophysiologic role of host or tumor cell-derived MPs in cancer-associated thrombosis, causality is not yet firmly established. The results of prospective clinical studies that are currently underway should clarify any causative relationship. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.