The Association of D-Dimer Levels with Other Prognostic Factors in Patients with Lung Cancer

To determine the factors related with coagulation disorders, deep venous thrombosis and thromboembolic events that are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with lung cancer. Materials and Methods: D-dimer (DD) levels at the time of diagnosis were determined in patients diagnosed with lung cancer and these cases were monitored prospectively for thromboembolic events and survival. Results: DD levels significantly increased and were associated with length of survival in lung cancer patients. Age, histopathological type, extent of the disease (stage), DD, performance status (ECOG), and thromboembolism were found to effect survival. DD, thromboembolism, ECOG, and histopathological type were found to be independent risk factors. Conclusions: Survival time is significantly shorter in the cases with thromboembolism. DD levels can be monitored and thromboembolism can be investigated when high DD levels are detected. Mortality and morbidity can significantly be reduced through initiation of anticoagulant treatment (low molecular weight heparin and warfarin) in the early period. DD can be considered as an inexpensive, simple test to be used in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up process of lung cancer patients.