Postphlebitic syndrome.

Abstract

Postphlebitic syndrome occurs in 20 per cent of patients with deep vein thrombosis. Symptoms are nonspecific; they include heaviness, fatigue, pain, and vary from patient to patient. The signs of edema, skin pigmentation, dermatitis, varicosities, and ulceration are a result of the increased retrograde venous pressure secondary to the valve destruction by the phlebitic process. The aim of therapy is to improve venous support by graduated elastic stockings and to ensure good skin care and exercise.