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Semin Thromb Hemost 2006; 32(7): 729-736
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-951458
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Upper Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis

Enrico Bernardi1 , Raffaele Pesavento2 , Paolo Prandoni2
  • 1Department of First Aid, Emergency Medicine and Observation, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
  • 2Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
06 October 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

About 10% of all episodes of venous thrombosis are due to upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT). Associated risk factors are indwelling central venous catheters, cancer, and coagulation defects; 20% of the episodes are unexplained. The onset of UEDVT is usually heralded by complaints such as arm swelling and pain, but may also be completely asymptomatic, especially in carriers of central venous lines. Objective confirmation is mandatory prior to instituting anticoagulation because the clinical diagnosis is unreliable; ultrasound-based methods represent the preferred diagnostic approach. Prophylaxis with low-dose heparin or low-dose warfarin may be used, especially in carriers of central venous catheters, although its efficacy is still uncertain. Unfractionated or low molecular weight heparins followed by oral anticoagulants should be regarded as the treatment of choice, whereas thrombolysis and surgery may be indicated in selected cases. Up to one third of the patients develop pulmonary embolism that may be fatal; postthrombotic syndrome and recurrent thromboembolism are also frequent complications. UEDVT should no longer be regarded as a rare and benign disease, as reported previously.

KEYWORDS

Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis - central venous catheters - cancer - pulmonary embolism - postthrombotic syndrome.

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Enrico BernardiM.D. Ph.D. 

Department of First Aid, Emergency Medicine and Observation, University Hospital of Padua. Via Giustiniani 1

35100 Padua, Italy

Email: enrico.bernardi@sanita.padova.it