Superficial thrombophlebitis of the cephalic vein-A 52-Year-Old Woman with Right Arm Swelling and Redness
Superficial thrombophlebitis of the cephalic vein 1. Cause and Etiology Superficial thrombophlebitis (STP) of the cephalic vein occurs when there is inflammation and thrombus (blood clot) formation within the cephalic vein, a superficial vein located along the lateral (thumb) side of the upper limb. Common causes and risk factors include: Venous cannulation or intravenous (IV) lines : Insertion of catheters into the cephalic vein is a major precipitating event. Trauma or irritation : Mechanical injury during venipuncture, blood draws, or trauma. Hypercoagulable states : Inherited thrombophilias (e.g., Factor V Leiden mutation, protein C/S deficiency), malignancy, pregnancy, or estrogen therapy. Infection : Local or systemic infections can promote endothelial damage and thrombosis. Inflammatory diseases , Such as Behçet’s disease or Buerger’s disease. Prolonged immobilization : Less common for superfici...