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TAILEM BEND PHARMACY
& KAROONDA PHARMACY DEPOT
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ALTERNATIVE NAMES
phlebitis; thrombophlebitis
DEFINITION
An inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin, which results from a blood clot.
CAUSES, INCIDENCE, AND RISK FACTORS
Superficial thrombophlebitis may occur after recently using a intravenous (IV) line, or after trauma to the vein. It
involves an inflammatory response associated with a clot in the vein.
Risks include an increased blood clotting tendency, infection, current or recent pregnancy, varicose veins, and
chemical or other irritation of the area. Prolonged sitting, standing, or immobilization increase the risk. Superficial
thrombophlebitis may occasionally be associated with abdominal cancers (such as carcinoma of the pancreas),
deep vein thrombosis , thromboangiitis obliterans, and (rarely) with pulmonary embolus.
PREVENTION
If an intravenous line is in use, the risk of superficial thrombophlebitis may be reduced by frequent observation
of the injection site, removal if signs of inflammation develop, and routine IV site rotation.
SYMPTOMS
- skin redness or inflammation along a superficial (skin) vein
- redness of the tissue around a superficial vein
- warmth of tissue around a superficial vein
- tenderness or pain along a superficial vein, worse when pressure is applied over the vein
- hardening of a superficial vein (induration)
- vein feeling cord-like
- leg pain
SIGNS AND TESTS
The health care provider makes the diagnosis of superficial thrombophlebitis primarily based on the appearance
of the extremity. Frequent checks of the pulse, blood pressure, temperature, skin condition, and circulation may
be required.
If the cause is not readily identifiable, tests may be performed to determine the cause, including:
- Doppler ultrasound
- extremity arteriography
Cultures of the skin or intravenous site drainage, or blood cultures, may be performed if infection is suspected.
This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:
- blood flow studies
- antithrombin III
TREATMENT
The goal of treatment is reduction of inflammation.
The intravenous catheter should be removed.
Medications may include analgesics for pain, anticoagulants to prevent clot formation, thrombolytics to dissolve
an existing clot, or others. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medication (NSAIDs) may reduce pain and
inflammation. Antibiotics are prescribed if infection is present.
Support stockings and wraps may be of benefit in reducing discomfort. Elevate the extremity to reduce swelling.
Keep pressure off of it to reduce pain and decrease the risk of further damage. Apply moist heat to the extremity
to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgical removal, stripping, or bypass of the vein is rarely needed, but it may be recommended in some situations.
EXPECTATIONS (PROGNOSIS)
Superficial thrombophlebitis is usually a benign and short term condition. Symptoms generally subside in 1 to 2
weeks, but hardness of the vein may remain for much longer.
COMPLICATIONS
- infections (cellulitis)
- gangrene (tissue death)
- septic shock
- deep vein thrombosis
Note: Complications are rare.
CALL YOUR HEALTH PROVIDER IF
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate superficial thrombophlebitis may be
present.
Call your health care provider if superficial thrombophlebitis has been diagnosed and symptoms do not improve
with treatment or symptoms worsen, or if new symptoms occur, such as entire limb becoming pale, cold, or
swollen, or if chills and fever develop.