Case of Circulating Tumor Cells Discovered in Extensive Deep Venous Thrombosis in a Patient with Known Urothelial Carcinoma

Abstract

Background. Currently, minimal data are available to explore the composition of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer. This case report discusses a presentation of venous thromboembolism in a patient with high-grade urothelial carcinoma and highlights the pathology findings in thrombi. Case Presentation. A 55-year-old female who was diagnosed with high-grade urothelial carcinoma with multiple metastases developed an extensive deep vein thrombosis in her left lower extremity. Endovascular revascularization was indicated due to left lower extremity pain and swelling not responsive to anticoagulation. A mechanical thrombectomy was performed, and samples were sent for pathology. Pathologic examination discovered minute fragments of metastatic carcinoma, admixed with laminated blood clots (thrombus). The morphology of metastatic carcinoma and the immunostain profile were compatible with metastatic carcinoma of bladder origin. Conclusion. Cancer is a well-known risk factor for developing VTEs, and it is estimated that approximately 4–20% of cancer patients will experience VTE at some stage, the rate being the highest in the initial period following diagnosis. Annually, 0.5% of cancer patients will experience thrombosis compared with a 0.1% incidence rate in the general population (Elyamany et al., 2014). Despite knowing the increased incidence of VTEs in cancer patients, there are few studies to date that analyze the composition of thrombi in patients with cancer.