Thrombophlebitis migrans in a man with pancreatic adenocarcinoma: a case report

Thrombophlebitis migrans is characterised by the development of recurrent (i.e. migratory) superficial thrombophlebitis. It is an acquired coagulopathy that is strongly associated with malignancy, especially solid tumours of the adenocarcinoma type.

A 62 year old male presented with jaundice, abdominal pain, anorexia, steatorrhoea and dark urine. Ultrasound demonstrated a mass in the head of the pancreas causing common bile duct obstruction. Histology confirmed pancreatic adenocarcinoma. He was subsequently noted to have a migratory, tender and erythematous rash consistent with thrombophlebitis migrans.

Thrombophlebitis migrans is more easily recognised in patients with an established diagnosis of malignancy than in situations where the thrombophlebitis is first diagnosed. In the latter situation, investigations for an occult malignancy should be sought.