Medical Encyclopedia

 

Medical Encyclopedia

Other encyclopedia topics:  A-Ag  Ah-Ap  Aq-Az  B-Bk  Bl-Bz  C-Cg  Ch-Co  Cp-Cz  D-Di  Dj-Dz  E-Ep  Eq-Ez  F  G  H-Hf  Hg-Hz  I-In  Io-Iz  J  K  L-Ln  Lo-Lz  M-Mf  Mg-Mz  N  O  P-Pl  Pm-Pz  Q  R  S-Sh  Si-Sp  Sq-Sz  T-Tn  To-Tz  U  V  W  X  Y  Z  0-9 

Thrombophlebitis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Deep venous thrombosis, ileofemoral
Deep venous thrombosis, ileofemoral
Venous blood clot
Venous blood clot

Alternative Names    Return to top

Phlebitis

Definition    Return to top

Thrombophlebitis is swelling (inflammation) of a vein caused by a blood clot.

Causes    Return to top

The following increase your chances for thrombophlebitis:

There are two main types of thrombophlebitis:

Symptoms    Return to top

The following symptoms are often associated with thrombophlebitis:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

The health care provider can usually diagnose the condition based on how the affected area looks. You may need to have your pulse, blood pressure, temperature, skin condition, and circulation frequently checked to make sure you don't have complications.

If the cause cannot be easily identified, one or more of the following tests may be done:

Treatment    Return to top

In general, treatment may include support stockings and wraps to reduce discomfort as well as medications such as:

You may be told to do the following:

Surgical removal, stripping, or bypass of the vein is rarely needed but may be recommended in some situations.

For more specific recommendations, see the particular condition (superficial thrombophlebitis or deep venous thrombosis).

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Thrombophlebitis and other forms of phlebitis usually respond to prompt medical treatment.

Possible Complications    Return to top

Superficial thrombophlebitis rarely causes complications.

Complications of deep vein thrombosis include blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) or chronic pain and swelling in the leg.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of thrombophlebitis.

Call your health care provider promptly if thrombophlebitis symptoms do not improve with treatment, if symptoms get worse, or if new symptoms occur (such as an entire limb becoming pale, cold, or swollen).

Prevention    Return to top

Routine changing of intravenous (IV) lines helps to prevent thrombophlebitis related to IVs.

If you are taking a long car or plane trip, walk or stretch your legs once in a while and drink plenty of liquids. Wearing support hose may help.

If you are hospitalized, your doctor may prescribe medicine to prevent deep venous thrombosis.

References    Return to top

Ginsberg J. Peripheral venous disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 81.

Update Date: 5/4/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M. Logo

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.