Angiogenesis, a term applied to the formation of capillaries from preexisting vessels is a
crucial phenomenon for the continuous growth of neoplastic cells and cancer progression. This
relationship has been described in several hematologic malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma,
multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes. Vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast
growth factor are predictors of poor prognosis in leukemia and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Furthermore,
microvessel density is correlated with decreased survival in leukemia, myeloma and lymphoma
patients. This review addresses evidence of the role of angiogenesis in hematopoietic malignancies.
Keywords: Angiogenic Molecules, Inhibitors of Angiogenesis, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Receptors, Bone Marrow Microenvironment, Bone Marrow-Derived Endothelial Precursor cells (EPCS),
Multiple Myeloma, Leukemia, Myelodysplastic Syndromes, Lymphoma, Autocrine and Paracrine Loops,
Lymphangiogenesis, Antiangiogenic Treatment.
