Phlegmasia cerulea dolens
| Phlegmasia cerulea dolens | |
| DiseasesDB | 32484 |
|---|---|
| MedlinePlus | 000200 |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Usama Talib, BSc, MD [2]
Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is a rare but severe form of deep venous thrombosis which results from extensive thrombotic occlusion of the major extremity veins and their collaterals. It is characterized by sudden severe pain, swelling, cyanosis and edema of the affected limb. Cyanosis is pathognomic for Phlegmasia cerulea dolens. There is a high risk of massive pulmonary embolism, even under anticoagulation. Foot gangrene may occur and is often followed by circulatory collapse and shock. Delay in treatment can be fatal or can lead to loss of limb.
Treatment options
- Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is the only indication of thrombolysis or thrombectomy in patients with deep vein thrombosis.
- Initiation of heparin followed by assessment for further management with thrombolysis or thrombectomy is done based on clinical presentation.
- Use of IVC filter is based on physician preference and a consensus does not yet exist on its use.
- See Deep vein thrombosis