Journal of Cancer Rehabilitation (Nov 2023)
REHABILITATION, CANCER, AND CONGENITAL BLEEDING DISORDERS
Abstract
Background Patients with congenital bleeding disorders require more frequent monitoring and careful management of treatments to avoid bleeding complications. In this context, an attempt is made to investigate the literature regarding rehabilitating patients with cancer and hemophilia. Materials and Methods We analyzed the existing literature on cancer, hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, other rare bleeding disorders and rehabilitation using databases: Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed, and finally, we analyzed 33 scientific articles. Results Managing cancer in patients with congenital bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia A, B, von Willebrand disease, and others, requires careful evaluation of bleeding risk and the effect of antitumor treatments on blood coagulation. Generally, patients with hemophilia and von Willebrand disease do not have an increased risk of developing cancer compared to the general population. However, some research suggests that people with hemophilia may have a slightly increased risk of developing certain types of tumors compared to the general population such as liver cancer and non- Hodgkin lymphoma, due to chronic inflammation and cell damage from bleeding episodes and treatment. However, if a patient with a congenital bleeding disorder develops cancer, the treatment must be managed to minimise the risk of bleeding. While a direct link between congenital bleeding disorders and cancer is contentious regarding the rehabilitation in patients with congenital blood disorders and cancer, the literature is lacking and without a solid basis on which to conclude. Conclusions It is important for patients with congenital bleeding disorders to be screened regularly and to coordinate with an expert team, including hematologists, oncologists, and other specialists, for optimal management of their health. Due to the insufficient evidence in the literature, it would be interesting to investigate rehabilitation approaches in patients with cancer and congenital bleeding disorders.
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