Superficial vein thrombophlebitis - Symptoms, Causes, Images, and Treatment Options

Diseases

Highlights & Basics

Key Highlights

Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT, also known as superficial vein thrombophlebitis) of the lower limb is most often a complication of varicose veins.
Doppler (duplex) ultrasonography is recommended for all patients with suspected SVT of the lower limb, as concomitant deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may be present.
Underlying prothrombotic conditions should be sought in cases of recurrent SVT and migratory SVT, especially in the absence of varicose veins.
Anticoagulation for 45 days to prevent venous thromboembolic complications (DVT or pulmonary embolism) is warranted, especially in patients with SVT of 5 cm or greater in length.

Greater saphenous vein superficial vein thrombophlebitis

Lucia MA, Ely EW. N Engl J Med. 2001:344;1214; used with permission

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Greater saphenous vein superficial vein thrombophlebitis

Citations

Key Articles

Stevens SM, Woller SC, Kreuziger LB, et al. Antithrombotic therapy for VTE disease: second update of the CHEST guideline and expert panel report. Chest. 2021 Dec;160(6):e545-608.[Abstract][Full Text]
Kakkos SK, Gohel M, Baekgaard N, et al. Editor's Choice - European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2021 clinical practice guidelines on the management of venous thrombosis. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2021 Jan;61(1):9-82.[Abstract][Full Text]
Thrombosis Canada. Superficial thrombophlebitis, superficial vein thrombosis. Aug 2023 [internet publication].[Full Text]
Di Nisio M, Wichers IM, Middeldorp S. Treatment for superficial thrombophlebitis of the leg. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018 Feb 25;(2):CD004982.[Abstract][Full Text]

Referenced Articles

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