The risk of recurrence after a first VTE is substantial, as up to 30-40% of the patients experience a recurrence within 10 years following the first event. Both first and recurrent events can be effectively prevented with anticoagulants, although at the cost of increased bleeding risk. The challenge therefore lies in identifying patients who may benefit from thromboprophylaxis, but with minimal risk of bleeding complications.
Identification of biomarkers for first and recurrent VTE are needed to improve risk stratification and guide decisions on initiation and duration of anticoagulant treatment. In this project, we investigate risk factors and biomarkers for VTE recurrence using data from VTE cohorts (mainly the Tromsø study). We are also members of a collaborative project on prediction of VTE (VTE-predict).
Principal Investigator: John-Bjarne Hansen
External Collaborators: Maria de Winter and Mathilde Nijkeuter (University Medical Center Utrecht), Suzanne C. Cannegieter (Leiden University Medical Center)
In this project, we aim to explore the utility of D-dimer measured at the time of diagnosis as a risk factor for recurrent VTE. We will use data from the Tromsø study and the TROLL registry of VTE patients at Østfold Hospital. We will investigate whether D-dimer measured at the time of the first VTE diagnosis can be used to assess risk of recurrent VTE, and whether D-dimer at time of diagnosis can be utilized in currently available risk prediction models of VTE recurrence.
External collaborators: Waleed Ghanima (Østfold Hospital, University of Oslo)
Publications:
North Norwegian Health Authority (Helse Nord)