Thrombophlebitis, superficial, secondary care, adults (excluding pregnancy) (396)
Superficial vein thrombosis also known as superficial thrombophlebitis (STP) is a common condition, likely more common than deep vein thrombosis. It is a painful condition affecting the superficial veins, usually of the lower limbs. It should not be confused with superficial femoral vein thrombosis, as this is thrombosis in a deep vein and requires full anticoagulation therapy.
STP can occur alone or in association with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In people with STP, 6-44% are associated with or develop DVT, 20-33% with asymptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) and 2-13% with symptomatic PE 2-14. Those associated with the great saphenous vein appear to have the strongest association with venous thromboembolism.