Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026
10:26
A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: June 2, 2015
17.1K
Red cell distribution width and risk for venous thromboembolism: a population-based cohort study
Bengt Zöller1, Olle Melander2, Peter Svensson3
1Center for Primary Care Research, Lund University/Region Skåne, Malmö, Sweden.
Thrombosis Research
|January 8, 2014
Summary
Red cell distribution width (RDW) predicts the first occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in middle-aged adults. Higher RDW levels significantly increase the risk of developing VTE over time.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Epidemiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Red cell distribution width (RDW) is linked to venous thromboembolism (VTE).
- The predictive value of RDW for a first VTE event remains unclear.
- This study investigates RDW as a predictor for incident VTE.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if Red cell distribution width (RDW) predicts the first occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE).
- To assess the association between RDW levels and the long-term incidence of VTE in a population-based cohort.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cohort of 27,042 subjects (aged 45-73) without prior VTE or recent cancer was analyzed.
- Red cell distribution width (RDW) was measured, and VTE incidence was tracked over a mean follow-up of 13.8 years.
- Statistical models adjusted for confounding factors, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed.
Main Results:
- A total of 991 VTE events occurred during follow-up.
- Increased RDW levels were associated with a higher risk of VTE, with hazard ratios ranging from 1.15 to 1.74 across quartiles.
- The highest RDW quartile showed a significantly elevated risk (HR=2.51) compared to the lowest.
Conclusions:
- Red cell distribution width (RDW) is associated with the long-term incidence of first-time venous thromboembolism (VTE).
- RDW may serve as a valuable predictive marker for VTE in middle-aged populations.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
469
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
469
01:30Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
822
Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
822
01:29Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
482
Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
482
01:30Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
415
Nursing management begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's health history. Key factors include trauma to veins, peripherally inserted central catheters, varicose veins, recent pregnancy or childbirth, surgery, bacteremia, prolonged bed rest, atrial fibrillation, COPD, heart failure, cancer, coagulation disorders, myocardial infarction, spinal cord injury, stroke, prolonged travel, recent bone fractures, and dehydration. Review medication intake, particularly oral contraceptives,...
415
01:20Volume of Distribution
2.0K
The apparent volume of distribution (Vd) is a crucial pharmacokinetic parameter representing the hypothetical body fluid volume into which a drug disperses. It is calculated based on the total amount of drug in the body (estimated from the administered dose and bioavailability) divided by the plasma drug concentration. The total amount of drug in the body does not directly refer to the dose given but is derived by accounting for absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion processes.
2.0K
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
319
Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
319