AT A GLANCE

Condition: thrombophlebitis Definition: inflammation of the vein wall Causes: Usually results from a kick or bite, injection, insertion of a catheter or other trauma to a vein. The trauma may also trigger the release of clotting factors, leading to the formation of a clot within the vein lumen (interior). Signs: discrete swelling following the contour of a vein; if a clot develops a lump will be noticeable, which may be painful to touch. Treatment: nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, hot compresses. In addition, an anticoagulant, such as heparin, may be administered to prevent clotting or reduce the size of a clot.