phlébites

Phlébites is the French term for phlebitis, the inflammation of a vein. It can involve superficial veins, often with thrombosis (superficial thrombophlebitis), or deep veins (deep vein thrombophlebitis), which carries a risk of pulmonary embolism. Causes include local irritation from intravenous lines, infection, trauma, or systemic factors; risk factors include age, immobility, obesity, pregnancy, cancer, and prior venous disease. In English medical usage the condition is called phlebitis or thrombophlebitis.

Symptoms depend on the location. Superficial phlébites cause redness, warmth, tenderness along a vein, and sometimes a palpable cord. Deep vein phlébites cause leg swelling, pain, warmth, and may be accompanied by fever; pulmonary symptoms may occur if a clot travels to the lungs.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment and imaging, especially duplex ultrasonography. D-dimer testing may be used in selected cases. Treatment for superficial cases typically includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, local heat or compression, leg elevation, and removal of the irritant (for example, an IV catheter); antibiotics if infection is present. Anticoagulation is considered if the thrombosis extends into the deep veins or in high-risk situations. Deep vein thrombophlebitis requires systemic anticoagulation for several weeks to months and monitoring for complications.

Prevention focuses on reducing venous stasis and vein irritation, including early mobilization, careful IV technique, and, for high-risk individuals, compression stockings. The prognosis is generally favorable for uncomplicated superficial phlébites, while involvement of the deep venous system requires prompt treatment to lower the risk of pulmonary embolism.