Deep venous thrombosis of lower limbs in adolescents: a study in a tertiary hospital

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) - which includes deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) - has been increasingly recognized in the pediatric population. The estimated incidence is 0.07-0.14 cases per 10,000 children. Most cases are associated with two or more risk factors. Medium and long-term complications include recurrence and post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).

To characterize the adolescent population with the diagnosis of DVT of lower limbs in a tertiary hospital, regarding its clinical presentation, associated risk factors, treatment and outcome.

Retrospective analysis of adolescents with the diagnosis of DVT of lower limbs in our hospital for a period of 7 years.

Eight patients were identified; seven were females; median age was 15 years. The main symptoms were local pain and edema. Left lower limb was affected in six patients. PE occurred in two cases. Positive family history of venous thromboembolism was found in five patients. Seven patients had at least two identifiable risk factors. Combined oral contraceptive pill use was the most common (seven patients). Factor V Leiden mutation was found in three patients and protein C deficiency in one. Iliac vein compression syndrome was diagnosed in one patient. The median time for discharge was 8 days. Election treatment was enoxaparin followed by warfarin, for a median period of 10.9 months. Three patients developed PTS.

Although uncommon, VTE is an emerging reality in adolescents, particularly in females using oral contraceptive pills. Appropriated prevention strategies and treatment are required as most orientations are extrapolated from adults.