Updated Pediatric Venous Thromboembolism Treatment Guidelines Now Available

The American Society of Hematology (ASH) in collaboration with the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) has released comprehensive updated clinical guidelines for treating venous thromboembolism (VTE) in children. Published in the journal Blood Advances, these guidelines are the result of a meticulous review process by an expert panel aiming to enhance clinical care through evidence-based recommendations.

This update marks the first revision since 2018, incorporating the latest research findings into 16 revised recommendations and four new ones. A significant change in these guidelines is the recommendation to consider direct oral anticoagulants—specifically dabigatran and rivaroxaban—instead of traditional therapies such as low molecular weight heparin and vitamin K antagonists. This shift is guided by emerging evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of these newer medications in pediatric populations.

Dr. Belinda R. Avalos, ASH president, emphasized that these guidelines serve as a vital resource for clinicians, providing updated, high-quality information to improve patient outcomes. Pantep Angchaisuksiri, MD, presiding over ISTH, highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing pediatric VTE management and commitment to ongoing research.

Though rare at a population level, VTE in children often occurs in hospitalized children and can be life-threatening. It manifests mainly as deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—a clot in deep veins—or pulmonary embolism (PE), which involves a clot blocking an artery in the lungs. Complex illnesses in children increase the risk, and proper management is crucial for long-term health.

As pediatric thrombosis cases rise among children with complex health issues, healthcare providers and parents are encouraged to stay informed about the latest treatment options. Dr. Paul Monagle, a pediatric hematologist and chair of the guidelines panel, emphasized that well-managed care can significantly influence long-term outcomes in children affected by VTE.

For more detailed information, the guidelines are published in Blood Advances (2025), and can be accessed via the DOI: doi.org/10.1182/bloodadvances.2024015328.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-clinical-guidelines-pediatric-venous-thromboembolism.html