Pronounced: fleh-BY-tis
Superficial thrombophlebitis is inflammation of a vein close to the skin surface. It happens most often in the leg. The condition is easily treatable. But, it can lead to more serious health problems.
ThrombophlebitisCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. |
Superficial thrombophlebitis is more common in women. The risk is higher in those aged 60 years or older. Other things that raise the risk are:
Symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis may be:
It can lead to problems such as:
The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.
Imaging tests will be done to diagnose the condition. They may include:
Superficial thrombophlebitis often goes away on its own in a few weeks. If needed, treatment may involve:
The risk of having this problem may be lowered by:
American College of Phlebology
http://www.phlebology.org
Society for Vascular Surgery
https://vascular.org
Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery
https://vascular.ca
Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca
Heit JA, Spencer FA, White RH. The epidemiology of venous thromboembolism. J Thromb Thrombolysis. 2016;41(1):3-14.
Superficial vein thrombosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/superficial-vein-thrombosis-svt. Accessed July 21, 2021.
Superficial venous thrombosis. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/peripheral-venous-disorders/superficial-venous-thrombosis. Accessed July 21, 2021.
Last reviewed July 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael J. Fucci, DO, FACC
Last Updated: 7/21/2021