Phlegmasia caerulea dolens

Classification according to ICD-10
I80.2	Thrombosis, phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of other deep vessels of the lower extremities
ICD-10 online (WHO version 2019)

The Phlegmasia caerulea dolens or Phlegmasia coerulea dolens ( Greek phlegmasia inflammation, fever; Latin caeruleus blue; Latin dolere pain) describes a rarely occurring, particularly severe form of venous thrombosis . This closes all veins in a cross-section, so that the blood of the affected extremity can no longer drain. Due to the outflow disturbance, the tissue pressure rises sharply and ultimately there is also a lack of arterial supply. The event is accompanied by severe pain and poses a serious threat to the affected limb and the life of the patient.

causes

A disruption of the microcirculation in the affected extremity initially leads to capillary thrombosis. The hemodynamically unfavorable situation leads to further thrombotic processes in the larger venous vessels, which leads to the formation of edema . This increases the pressure on the venous and arterial vascular system at the affected area, with a complete interruption of the blood supply.

Symptoms

The underperfusion of the tissue and the high tissue pressure result in severe pain and cold (insufficient arterial supply) as well as soft tissue swelling and a hard consistency (edema) of the affected extremity. The bluish discoloration due to the lack of oxygen supply to the extremity, which gave Phlegmasia caerulea dolens its name, is characteristic. As the disease progresses, necrosis occurs if no quick action is taken.

therapy

Phlegmasia caerulea dolens is an emergency situation that must be treated immediately. The venous drainage path is reopened by means of a thrombectomy . A fasciotomy may also be indicated to reduce tissue pressure . Because of the thrombotic occurrence, fibrinolysis should be started immediately, as well as anticoagulation for prophylaxis of thrombotic complications (such as pulmonary embolism) .

See also

• thrombosis
• Phlegmasia alba dolens

Individual evidence

1. ^ Willibald Pschyrembel , ed .: Pschyrembel Clinical Dictionary 255th edition, Verlag Walter de Gruyter, Berlin New York 1986 ISBN 3-11-007916-X , page 1297

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !