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Phlegmasia cerulea dolens
     
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Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

Deep vein thrombosis - Phlegmasia cerulea dolens; DVT - Phlegmasia cerulea dolens; Phlegmasia alba dolens

 

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is an uncommon, severe form of deep venous thrombosis (blood clots in a vein). It most often occurs in the upper leg.

Causes

 

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is preceded by blood clots in a vein, usually a deep vein of the leg.

 

Symptoms

 

Severe pain, rapid swelling, and bluish skin coloring affect the area below the blocked vein.

 

Possible Complications

 

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

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

Seek medical help right away if an arm or leg is severely swollen, blue, or painful.

 

 

References

Chan NC, Weitz JI. Venous thromboembolism. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 140.

Johanning JM, Thompson JR, Lynch TG. Clinical evaluation of the venous and lymphatic systems. In: Sidawy AN, Perler BA, eds. Rutherford's Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, 2-Volume Set. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 20.

Kabrhel C. Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 74.

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      Venous blood clot

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    Review Date: 1/29/2026

    Reviewed By: Warren Brenner, MD, Oncologist, Lynn Cancer Institute, Boca Raton, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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