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Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Venous blood clot
Venous blood clot

Alternative Names    Return to top

Phlegmasia alba dolens

Definition    Return to top

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

Symptoms    Return to top

Pain, swelling, and bluish-skin coloring affect the area below the blocked vein.

Exams and Tests    Return to top

For information on diagnosis, see: Deep venous thrombosis

Treatment    Return to top

For information on treatment, see: Deep venous thrombosis

Possible Complications    Return to top

Continued clotting leads to increased swelling. The swelling can interfere with blood flow. This complication is called phlegmasia alba dolens. It may lead to tissue death (gangrene) and the need for amputation.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

See immediate medical help if an arm or leg is severely swollen, blue, and painful.

Update Date: 8/11/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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