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Venous blood clot
Venous blood clot

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

Definition:

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is an uncommon, severe form of deep venous thrombosis (clots in the vein), usually in the upper leg.



Causes, incidence, and risk factors:



Symptoms:

Below the blocked vein, phlegmasia cerulea dolens produces swelling, bluish color, and pain.



Signs and tests:

See deep venous thrombosis.



Treatment:

See deep venous thrombosis.



Support Groups:



Expectations (prognosis):



Complications:

Progression of the clotting process in the vein may lead to increased swelling. This can cause a overall compromise of the circulation in the limb, affecting both the arteries and the veins. This complication is called phlegmasia alba dolens, which may lead to gangrene and require amputation.



Calling your health care provider:

See your health care provider, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or get to an emergency room immediately if an arm or leg is seriously swollen, blue, and painful.



Prevention:




Review Date: 11/9/2004
Reviewed By: Marcia S. Brose, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Hematology/Oncology, The University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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Hartford, Connecticut 06105
(860) 714-4000

 
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