[Superficial thrombophlebitis--diagnostics and treatment]

Abstract

Superficial thrombophlebitis (ST) is a common disease, usually considered benign. However, the practice of systemic duplex ultrasonography has revealed a large number of deep-vein thromboses concomitant with ST. In contrast with extensive information on the management of deep vein thrombosis, little is known about the most appropriate treatment of the ST. Systematic duplex ultrasonography investigation has been proposed in the initial management of ST, to detect the presence of any underlying deep vein thrombosis. Because ST may extend into the deep venous system and potentially engender pulmonary embolism, treatment with low-molecular-weight-heparins might be the best choice. In our work diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for ST, proposed by Slovak angiological society, Slovak society for vascular surgeons, Slovak dermatological society, Slovak society for haemostasis and thrombosis, Slovak surgical society and Slovak internistic society are discussed.