Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis: An intensivist’s perspective

Core Tip

Core Tip: Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT), is largely under-recognised and an often missed diagnosis. Even though it is less common than the lower extremity DVT, it is increasingly being diagnosed, especially in intensive care unit patients because of presence of venous catheters and devices in these patients. Traditionally used clinical probability scores and tests like D-dimer may not be as effective in diagnosing UEDVT. Bedside Doppler ultrasound is the most commonly employed diagnostic tool which may aid in clinching the diagnosis. Contrast venography remains the gold standard, but is rarely required. Pulmonary embolism is the most dreaded complication but the rates of other complications including post thrombotic syndrome and recurrent DVT also remain significant. Anticoagulant therapy alone is sufficient in most patients. However, UEDVT may be associated with high mortality rates unless early diagnostic and therapeutic measures are initiated.