Deep vein thrombosis

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Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms in the deep veins of the legs, pelvis, or arms. These veins are located near the bones and are surrounded by muscle.

A thrombus may form in the deep veins as a result of a blood-clotting abnormality, an injury, or prolonged inactivity (such as a long airplane ride or bed rest).

A deep vein thrombus can break loose and travel through the bloodstream to the lung, resulting in life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

A person with deep vein thrombosis may or may not have symptoms. If symptoms are present, they often include tenderness, pain, or swelling.

Treatment usually includes the use of blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) that prevent new clots from forming or prevent existing clots from getting larger.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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