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Updated: May 19, 2026
10:05
Development and Identification of a Novel Subpopulation of Human Neutrophil-derived Giant Phagocytes In Vitro
Published on: January 25, 2017
Giant cell phlebitis: a potentially lethal clinical entity.
Takeshige Kunieda1, Masanori Murayama, Tsuneko Ikeda
1Matsunami General Hospial, Gifu, Hashima, Japan. kunieda_t@yahoo.co.jp
BMJ Case Reports
|August 4, 2012
Summary
Giant cell phlebitis, a rare venous disease, infiltrated abdominal and extra-abdominal organs, including the heart, leading to fatal outcomes. This case highlights the severe potential morbidity associated with this uncommon condition.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Vascular Biology
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Giant cell phlebitis is a rare inflammatory condition affecting veins.
- Its etiology remains largely unknown.
- This case presents a unique instance of the disease's progression and impact.
Observation:
- An 83-year-old woman experienced malaise, fever, and abdominal pain.
- Despite antibiotic treatment, her condition deteriorated, leading to death.
- Autopsy revealed eosinophilic and giant cell infiltration of mesenteric veins.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination showed venous infiltration in the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, retroperitoneal tissues, and myocardium.
- Arterial involvement was notably absent.
- The diagnosis was confirmed as giant cell phlebitis.
Implications:
- This case is the first to document giant cell phlebitis affecting extra-abdominal organs, specifically the heart.
- It underscores the potential for severe morbidity and mortality from this rare disease.
- Further research into the etiology and pathogenesis of giant cell phlebitis is warranted.
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