Thromboembolic risk in prostate cancer patients treated with PARP inhibitors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) have been associated with thrombotic events, although the association with thrombosis risk in different cancers remains poorly defined. Methods: This meta-analysis included phase II and phase III clinical trials in which patients with metastatic prostate cancer were treated with PARPi either as monotherapy or in combination. The primary endpoints were the rates of thromboembolic events in prostate cancer patients. Results: A total of 2210 and 1662 patients with prostate cancer were compared in the PARP inhibitor and control groups, respectively. 96 (4.3 %) and 37 (2.2 %) patients had thrombosis in the PARPi and control groups, respectively. PARPi had a statistically significant increased risk of thrombosis in prostate cancer patients (Odds Ratio (OR)=1.98, 95 % CI: 1.06-3.70, P=0.030). Conclusion: The heightened thrombotic risk associated with PARPi treatment in prostate cancer emphasizes the need for comprehensive management protocols to effectively reduce the risk and ensure safer outcomes.