Phlegmasia Alba Dolens Caused by a Distended Bladder

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Vascular Surgery
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition.
• Bladder distention can increase iliac vein pressure.
• A link between bladder distention and DVT is rarely reported.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of DVT caused by bladder distention.
• To raise awareness of DVT as a complication of bladder distention.
• To emphasize the role of physical examination.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 64-year-old patient.
• Description of iatrogenic bladder injury leading to distention.
• Clinical presentation and diagnostic findings.

Main Results:

• The patient developed DVT due to an obstructed, distended, atonic bladder.
• Iatrogenic injury was identified as the cause of bladder dysfunction.
• Physical examination was crucial in identifying the underlying cause.

Conclusions:

• Severe bladder distention can be an unusual cause of DVT.
• Physicians should consider bladder distention in patients with unexplained DVT.
• Thorough physical examination is essential for diagnosis.