Phlebitis

Phlebitis is the inflammation of a vein, usually in the legs. It most commonly occurs in superficial veins. Phlebitis often occurs in conjunction with thrombosis and is then called “thrombophlebitis” or “superficial thrombophlebitis”. Unlike deep vein thrombosis, the probability that superficial thrombophlebitis will cause a clot to break up and be transported in pieces to the lung is very low.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
• Localized redness and swelling
• Pain or burning along the length of the vein
• Vein being hard and cord-like

CAUSE
Phlebitis is typically caused by local trauma to a vein, usually from the insertion of an intravenous catheter. However, phlebitis can also occur due to a complication of connective tissue disorders such as lupus, or of pancreatic, breast, or ovarian cancers. Phlebitis can also result from certain medications and drugs that irritate the veins. Superficial phlebitis often presents as an early sign in Thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger’s disease), a vasculitis that affects small and medium-sized arteries and veins in distal extremities often associated with cigarette smoking.

TREATMENT
Treatment usually consists of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, and local compression (e.g., by compression stockings). If the phlebitis is associated with local bacterial infection, antibiotics may be used.