Management of arterial bleeding in critically ill cancer patients

Acute major arterial bleeding complications are rare in cancer patients but can be fatal. Bleeding is usually related to the advanced malignancy or occurs as a consequence of the cancer treatment. Large tumor size and location of the tumor in close proximity to a large artery are risk factors for major bleeding complications. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is paramount in the management of acute major hemorrhage. Treatment begins with volume and blood resuscitation, followed by timely intervention to control the bleeding. This chapter provides an overview of the current management of arterial bleeding with the primary focus on patients with solid tumors during and after oncologic treatment.