Resolution of Phlegmasia Cerulea Dolens in a Patient with Metastatic Cancer and an Inferior Vena Cava Filter.
Marie Nicole Hamel, John J Lee, Sun Ho Ahn
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 69-year-old man with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer developed rapidly progressive phlegmasia cerulea dolens despite recent negative imaging and an inferior vena cava filter. He presented with bilateral lower extremity discoloration and absent Doppler signals. Urgent mechanical thrombectomy was performed, leading to rapid clinical improvement and restoration of venous flow.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should be aware that phlegmasia cerulea dolens can develop rapidly in high-risk patients, even with prior negative imaging and existing venous filters.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of considering mechanical thrombectomy as a viable treatment option for extensive venous thromboembolism and phlegmasia cerulea dolens.