Superficial thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein just
below the surface of the skin, which results from a blood clot.
This condition may occur after recently using an IV line, or after
trauma to the vein. Some symptoms can include pain and tenderness
along the vein and hardening and feeling cord-like. Superficial
thrombophlebitis is usually a benign and short-term condition.
Symptoms generally subside in 1 to 2 weeks, but hardness of the
vein may remain for much longer.
Review Date: 04/30/2010
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer,
Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant
Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Emile
Riggs Mohler III, MD, Vascular Medicine, Associate Professor of
Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School
of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
