Ischemic stroke in patients with cancer

Abstract

Ischemic stroke is one of the most important complications of malignant tumors. The etiology and pathogenesis of ischemic stroke in patients with cancer are very complicated, it includes either traditional vascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia or the risk factors associated with the pathophysiological state of tumors such as hypercoagulable state, tumor emboli, and thrombotic endocarditis. In addition, various treatment methods associated with tumors, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy and endocrine therapy, can also increase the risk of ischemic stroke. Because of the complexity of the etiology and pathogenesis, the treatment methods for ischemic stroke in patients with cancer are also different with common practice. Identification of the causes and selection of targeted therapies are crucial for the prevention ad treatment of tumor-associated ischemic stroke. With the increase of the survival rate in patients with cancer, ischemic stroke in patients with cancer is also receiving increasing attention. This article reviews advances in etiology, pathogenesis and treatment of ischemic stroke in patients with cancer. Key words: Stroke; Brain Ischemia; Neoplasms