Summary

The clinical observation of thrombotic events in cancer patients has been first described in the late 19th century by Armand Trousseau. However, the molecular mechanisms that link tumour and thrombosis are far from being understood. While molecular concepts of how activation of the coagulation system could occur in cancer patients are being proposed, the exact mechanisms underlying this phenomenon that might finally lead to therapeutic options are still matter of intensive research. Interestingly, it is getting more and more recognized, that tumour patients showing activation of the coagulation system are at a greater risk of tumour progression than those without signs of thrombotic activity. Therefore, activation of the coagulation cascade in tumour patients correlates with higher risk of tumour progression and fatality, even without a thrombotic event. Therefore, it is necessary to increase our understanding of tumour-induced thrombophilia and initiate studies that recognize this important fact.