## Overview Jugular thrombophlebitis is inflammation and clotting of the jugular vein, most often from intravenous catheterization. The vein becomes hard, swollen, and painful. Bilateral involvement can cause marked facial edema. Septic thrombi may abscess. ## Causes Catheter-related trauma or infection, or perivascular injection of irritating drugs. ## Diagnosis Palpation of a cord-like vein and ultrasound showing thrombus. Culture if infection is suspected. ## Treatment Remove the catheter, anti-inflammatories, hot packing, and antibiotics if septic. Anticoagulants are sometimes used. Most cases resolve over weeks, though the vein may remain partially occluded. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for unilateral cases. Bilateral thrombosis causes more significant swelling but usually improves. ## Prevention Aseptic catheter placement, proper securement, and prompt removal when no longer needed.
hard swollen painful jugular vein; facial edema if bilateral; heat and pain on palpation
## Overview Jugular thrombophlebitis is inflammation and clotting of the jugular vein, most often from intravenous catheterization. The vein becomes hard, swollen, and painful. Bilateral involvement can cause marked facial edema. Septic thrombi may abscess. ## Causes Catheter-related trauma or infection, or perivascular injection of irritating drugs. ## Diagnosis Palpation of a cord-like vein and ultrasound showing thrombus. Culture if infection is suspected. ## Treatment Remove the catheter, anti-inflammatories, hot packing, and antibiotics if septic. Anticoagulants are sometimes used. Most cases resolve over weeks, though the vein may remain partially occluded. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for unilateral cases. Bilateral thrombosis causes more significant swelling but usually improves. ## Prevention Aseptic catheter placement, proper securement, and prompt removal when no longer needed.
hard swollen painful jugular vein; facial edema if bilateral; heat and pain on palpation