Over 200,000 new cases of venous thromboembolism (VTE) occur annually in the United States. The risk of VTE is increased in hospitalized patients, and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a relatively common complication in patients who are acutely ill or undergo surgery. With better identification of hereditary and acquired risk factors for VTE, the modern clinician is presented with an ever-growing number of laboratory tests that can be ordered in such patients. There is considerable controversy as to how this newly available information should be utilized in clinical patient management. Goals of this article include: (a) an overview of the epidemiology of venous thrombosis and its associated risk factors (including recently discovered genetic abnormalities); (b) current indications for testing for thrombophilia; (c) the appropriate choice for timing and type of testing; and (d) the interpretation of test results. Sections in the latter part of the manuscript include a description of each respective hypercoagulable condition, including diagnosis, treatment, prognostic factors, complications, and long-term care implications.

Citation: Prosciak MP, Stawicki SP. Hypercoagulable states: A concise review. OPUS 12 Scientist 2008;2(5):5-15.

Keywords: Venous thromboembolism, Deep venous thrombosis, Genetic predisposition, Laboratory testing, Overview of treatment.

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