Superficial thrombophlebitis or deep vein thrombosis?

Superficial thrombophlebitis (phlebitis) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are both common conditions and they share some clinical features and risk factors. It is important to differentiate between the two disorders because they are managed differently. In part one of this two-part article, the clinical features and the differential diagnosis of phlebitis and DVT are examined. Part two will examine the management options for each condition.