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Lifespan’s A - Z Health Information Library |
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Superficial thrombophlebitisDefinitionSuperficial thrombophlebitis is inflammation of a vein due to a blood clot in a vein located just below the skin's surface. Alternative NamesThrombophlebitis - superficial CausesSuperficial thrombophlebitis may occur after injury to the vein or the recent use of an intravenous (IV) line. It may also develop for no apparent reason in persons at risk for the condition. Risks for superficial thrombophlebitis include:
Superficial thrombophlebitis may be associated with:
Other rare disorders associated this condition include Antithrombin III (AT-III), Protein C and Protein S deficiencies. Symptoms
Exams and TestsYour health care provider will diagnose superficial thrombophlebitis based mainly on the appearance of the affected area. Frequent checks of the pulse, blood pressure, temperature, skin condition, and blood flow may be needed. The following tests can help confirm the condition:
If there are signs of an infection, skin or blood cultures may be performed. TreatmentThe goals of treatment are to reduce pain and inflammation and prevent complications. To reduce discomfort and swelling, support stockings and elevation of the affected extremity are recommended. A catheter or IV line should be removed if it is shown to have caused the thrombophlebitis. Medications to treat superficial thrombophlebitis may include:
If deeper clots (deep vein thrombosis) are also present, your provider may prescribe medicines to dissolve an existing clot. Antibiotics are prescribed if you have an infection Surgical removal (phlebectomy), stripping, or sclerotherapy of the affected vein are occasionally needed to treat large varicose veins or to prevent further episodes of thrombophlebitis in high-risk patients. Outlook (Prognosis)Superficial thrombophlebitis is usually a short-term condition that does not lead to complication. Symptoms generally go away in 1 to 2 weeks, but hardness of the vein may remain for much longer. Possible ComplicationsComplications of superficial thrombophlebitis are rare. Possible problems may include the following:
When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall for an appointment with your provider if symptoms indicate superficial thrombophlebitis may be present. Call your provider if you have been diagnosed with superficial thrombophlebitis and your symptoms do not improve with treatment, or if your symptoms worsen. Call the provider if any new symptoms occur, such as entire limb becoming pale, cold, or swollen, or if chills and fever develop. PreventionIf you need to have an IV, the risk of superficial thrombophlebitis may be reduced by regularly changing the location of the IV and by immediately removal of the IV line if signs of inflammation develop. Whenever possible, avoid keeping your legs and arm still for long periods of time. Move your legs often or take a stroll during long plane trips, car trips, and other situations in which you are sitting or lying down for long periods of time. Walking and staying active as soon as possible after surgery or during a long-term medical illness can also reduce your risk of thrombophlebitis. ReferencesFreischlag JA, Heller JA, Venous disease. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 68. Bauer KA. Hypercoagulable states. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2005:chap 127. Deitcher SR. Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer-related venous thrombosis. In: Abeloff MD, Armitage JO, Niederhuber JE, Kastan MB, McKena WG, eds. Clinical Oncology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2004:chap 46. Review Date: 10/25/2008
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Emile Riggs Mohler III, MD, Vascular Medicine, Associate Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any
medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical
condition. A licensed medical professional 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
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other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the
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