Stress Caused Thrombosis - A case of spontaneous DVT of upper extremity

An elderly diabetic and hypertensive female patient presented with a history of acute onset swelling, heaviness, tingling and numbness of left upper limb since 1 week. Examination revealed, diffuse swelling of left upper limb extending to neck with small dilated veins in left upper chest. A provisional diagnosis of left upper limb DVT was made based on Constants criteria and was confirmed on Duplex scanning. The patient was started on LMWH for anticoagulation. Evaluation for occult cancers was unremarkable. Patient showed symptomatic improvement and recanalization of thrombosis veins was noted on repeat duplex scan.Upper extremity DVT (UEDVT) , once a rare entity, can be seldom thought of, due to widespread interventions and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Focus on evaluation of occult malignancy rather for hypercoagulable states which do not change the management. This case report highlights the importance of early recognition of UEDVT and stresses on the evidence that no added benefit is achieved by performing expensive tests to rule out prothrombotic states. Early diagnosis based on Constants criteria and anticoagulation would save time and prevent grave complications.

Author(s): Dr. Darshan B M

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