It is generally a benign, self-limiting disorder; however, it can be complicated by deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and even pulmonary embolism (PE)[4] Migratory superficial thrombophlebitis is known as Trousseau's syndrome, which can be an early sign of cancer.
[9][10] Findings of tenderness, induration, pain, or erythema (redness) along the course of a superficial vein usually establish a clinical diagnosis, especially in patients with known risk factors.
In addition, there is often a palpable, sometimes nodular "cord", due to thrombus (blood clot) within the affected vein.
On physical examination, the skin over the affected vein exhibits erythema, warmth, swelling, and tenderness.
[11] Treatment with compression stockings should be offered to patients with lower extremity superficial phlebitis, if not contraindicated (e.g., peripheral artery disease).
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are effective in relieving the pain associated with venous inflammation and were found in a randomized trial to significantly decrease extension and/or recurrence of superficial vein thrombosis.
[18] Surgical therapy with ligation of the saphenofemoral junction or stripping of thrombosed superficial veins appears to be associated with higher rates of venous thromboembolism compared with treatment with anticoagulants.
[22] Some 125,000 cases a year have been reported in the United States, but actual incidence of spontaneous thrombophlebitis is unknown.