Upper-extremity Deep-vein Thrombosis

Upper-extremity deep-vein thrombosis is thrombus in deep veins of the arm/axilla/subclavian, associated with central venous catheters, pacemakers, thoracic-outlet obstruction (Paget-Schroetter), or malignancy. Clinical: arm swelling/pain, dilated collateral veins. Treatment: anticoagulation; remove/reposition catheter if possible; thrombolysis for massive/acute; treat thoracic-outlet syndrome (surgical decompression); screen for malignancy; monitor PE; IVC filter when anticoagulation contraindicated.

Common Symptoms

Arm swelling/pain; collateral veins; by catheter-related/Paget-Schroetter/malignancy

Causes and Pathogenesis

Catheter/endothelial injury/stasis/hypercoagulability causes upper-extremity DVT.

Treatment

Anticoagulation; remove catheter; thrombolysis for massive; treat thoracic-outlet/malignancy

Preventive Measures

Careful catheter placement; treat thoracic outlet; screen malignancy.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Vascular-surgery/Hematology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.