[Thrombophlebitis of the leg: diagnosis and treatment by the general practitioner]. / Tromboflebitis van het been: diagnostiek en behandeling door de huisarts.

We reviewed the literature for the association between superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) and for evidence of treatment of SVT with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). There is some evidence for an association between SVT and VTE. This association seems stronger for proximal SVT as compared with distal SVT. In general practice, the absolute risk of VTE with or after SVT is low, approximately 3%. There is evidence that treatment of SVT with LMWH may have a beneficial effect on its course. NSAIDs have a similar effect. There is indirect evidence that LMWH is effective in the prevention of VTE, if the treatment is continued for more than 4 weeks. In case of a proximal SVT, we suggest an ultrasound examination be carried out and LMWH treatment given if the diagnosis is confirmed; in other cases, NSAIDs can be considered.