Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Definition:

An inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin, which results from a blood clot.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Superficial thrombophlebitis may occur after recently using a intravenous (IV) line, or after trauma to the vein. It involves an inflammatory response associated with a clot in the vein.

Risks include an increased blood clotting tendency, infection, current or recent pregnancy, varicose veins, and chemical or other irritation of the area. Prolonged sitting, standing, or immobilization increase the risk. Superficial thrombophlebitis may occasionally be associated with abdominal cancers (such as carcinoma of the pancreas), deep vein thrombosis, thromboangiitis obliterans, and (rarely) with pulmonary embolus.