There is only limited data for the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in tumor patients and no data from prospective randomised trials comparing DOACs to the current standard care: low molecular weight heparine (LMWH). Therefore, DOACs must be used with caution and should be restricted to tumor patients with (1) contraindications for LMWH (e.g. HIT II, phobia of syringe) or (2) to the situations of prolonged anticoagulation after initial therapy with LMWH. Cancer-associated disorders as well as side effects of chemotherapy as nausea and emesis have to be considered as well as potential substance-specific interactions. Data of future clinical trials in prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombembolism in tumor patients will help to define the role of DOACs in this special patient cohort.
