[Extensive pulmonary embolism secondary to varicophlebitis]

Varicophlebitis is a common disease in the medical practice of dermatologists and phlebologists. In contrast to deep vein thrombosis, which is often associated with pulmonary embolism or other secondary complications, varicophlebitis usually has an uncomplicated course. We present the unusual case of a woman who developed an extensive pulmonary embolism through ascension of a varicophlebitis. Varicophlebitis should not be underestimated; adequate diagnostic procedures, especially via color-coded compression duplex sonography, should be performed and suitable therapy instituted.