Association deep veinous thrombosis with pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis has been reported as a risk factor for deep venous thrombosis.

Aim: In the present study we reported, physiopathological, epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic features of the association of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary tuberculosis.

Methods: This is a retrospective study done in our department between January 2000 and December 2007. It is about 14 cases of confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis associated with deep venous thrombosis.

Results: It is about 14 men. The mean age was 40 years old. Pulmonary tuberculosis was confirmed by the presence of acido-alcoolo-resistant bacillus on the sputum at direct exam in 12 cases (81, 8%) and in the bronchial aspiration in 2 cases (18%). Phlebitis occurred within a mean of 20 days after the diagnosis of tuberculosis. It was confirmed by doppler deep venous ultrasound of inferior members. All patients received anti-tuberculosis drugs in association with anticoagulant treatment. Etiologic investigations showed positive anti-phospholipids antibodies in one case, and decrease in C and S proteins for 2 patients in which phlebitis was complicated by arterial pulmonary embolism. We had difficulties for controlling prothrombin level in 4 cases and we must prescribe low molecular weight heparin for 6 months in one case.

Conclusion: A lot of attention should be done, in the follow up of pulmonary tuberculosis especially in severe presentation; because of the deep venous thrombosis's risk occurrence. Prophylactic anticoagulant treatment should be done in some cases, when the risk is higher.