Thrombophlebitis is a phlebitis (inflammation of a vein) related to a thrombus (blood clot).

[1][4] In terms of complications, one of the most serious occurs when the superficial blood clot is associated with a deep vein thrombosis; this can then dislodge, traveling through the heart and occluding the dense capillary network of the lungs This is a pulmonary embolism which can be life-threatening.

If the cause is not readily identifiable, tests may be performed to determine the cause, including the following:[1][4] Prevention consists of walking, drinking fluids and if currently hospitalized, changing of IV lines.

In general, treatment may include the following:[1][4][5] Thrombophlebitis occurs almost equally between women and men, though males do have a slightly higher possibility.

The average age of developing thrombophlebitis, based on analyzed incidents, is 54 for men and 58 for women.