The results of a coagulation study in 22 patients with disseminated neuroblastoma are reported. The most frequent changes observed were: thrombocytopenia, hyperfibrinogenemia and increased fibrinolytic (activator) activity; an occasional decrease in the prothrombin complex factors was also found. All patients had a normal factor VIII level. One patient had a severe fibrinolytic purpura.
The significance of these findings is discussed. A coagulation workup seems indicated in all patients with neuroblastoma who show a bleeding tendency. A well controlled hemostatic balance may allow in fact a more aggressive therapeutic approach.
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