Superficial Thrombophlebitis
DefinitionThrombophlebitis involves inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot inside the vein. With superficial thrombophlebitis, the clot is in a vein that is just below the surface of the skin.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Superficial thrombophlebitis may occur after the recent use of an intravenous (IV) line, after trauma to the vein, or for no apparent reason in persons at risk for thrombophlebitis.
Risks for superficial thrombophlebitis include the following:
- Disorders that involve increased likelihood of blood clotting
- Infection
-
Varicose veins
- Chemical irritation of the area
- Sitting or being immobilized for a prolonged period
The risk is also increased in women by current or recent pregnancy as well as by the use of oral contraceptives.
Superficial thrombophlebitis may occasionally be associated with abdominal cancers (such as carcinoma of the pancreas), deep vein thrombosis, and thromboangiitis obliterans.
|
