3rd April 2024

Thrombophlebitis

Background

Superficial thrombophlebitis may also be associated with DVT or PE and is characterised by superficial vein thrombosis with surrounding inflammation. Risk factors for developing thrombophlebitis include:

• Varicose veins
• Thrombophilia
• Intravenous cannulation & drug administration
• Pregnancy
• Malignancy

Management

Pain is managed with NSAIDS, paracetamol and warm compresses. Where varicose veins are implicated, compression stockings may be offered as a treatment and referral to vascular services considered. Arterial insufficiency should be excluded by measuring ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) before prescribing compression stockings. In cases of suspected malignancy, patients should be investigated for underlying cancer. Where presentation is recurrent, a thrombophilia screen should be considered. Low molecular weight heparin and fondaparinux have been shown to reduce superficial vein thrombosis extension and recurrence.