-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
cardiovascular system
thrombophlebitis
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
inflammation of a vein before the formation of a thrombus

etiology:
injury to the venous lining (e.g. from catheterization), hypercoagulability (e.g. from oral contraceptives, hyperlipidemia), and immobility (e.g. paralysis, post-operatively)

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms: developing over hours to 1-2 days
• fever is often present
• involved vein is extremely tender, warm, bluish
• superficial veins may be prominent
• (+) Homan's sign
• in superficial venous insufficiency, the veins may be dilated and hard as cords; there is edema, redness, warmth and tenderness
• surrounding area is red and edematous

lab findings:
• (+) venogram
• (+) Doppler
• (+) isotope venography
• (+) plethysmography
• may be septic if recurrent, with increased WBC count and marked left shift
• DIC may present, with azotemia and shock

course and prognosis

Typically, the disease is self-limiting and lasts for 1-2 weeks. Deep venous thrombosis may cause chronic venous insufficiency. Death may occur by pulmonary embolism causing significant damage to the lungs.

differential diagnosis

• chronic venous insufficiency
• varicose veins


footnotes