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[Deep venous thrombosis of the upper extremities]
P Huber1, H E Schmitt, K Jäger
1Departement für Innere Medizin, Kantonsspital Basel.
Summary
Deep vein thrombosis of the upper extremity, though rare, is often linked to tumors or thoracic outlet syndrome. Anticoagulation is crucial for acute subclavian vein thrombosis, with conservative treatment generally yielding favorable outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Hematology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Context:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the upper extremity is an uncommon condition.
- Pathogenesis is often unclear, but risk factors include malignancy, thoracic outlet syndrome, and central venous catheterization.
- Subclavian vein thrombosis is the most frequent upper extremity DVT.
Purpose:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, and management strategies for upper extremity deep vein thrombosis.
- To emphasize the importance of anticoagulation in acute cases and outline indications for invasive procedures.
Summary:
- Upper extremity DVT diagnosis is often clinical, supported by Doppler ultrasound, plethysmography, or phlebography.
- Anticoagulation is the mainstay of treatment for acute thrombosis to prevent pulmonary embolism.
- Conservative management typically leads to good outcomes, reserving invasive treatments like thrombectomy or thrombolysis for select cases.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of recognizing and appropriately managing upper extremity DVT to prevent serious complications.
- Provides guidance on diagnostic workup and treatment selection, optimizing patient care.
- Contributes to understanding the favorable prognosis with timely and adequate anticoagulation therapy.