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Bleeding and Clotting Disorders

UEDVT Question

02/18/2010

Question:

Last year I was diagnosed with UE DVT in my left sub-clavian and axillary veins as well as PE. I had no risk factors did not test postive for any inherited clotting disorders. Although I understand there are two test that cannot be done once warfarin therapy has started. I had tons of lab work, CT scans and MRI to rule out any occult cancers. I met with a hematologist in the hospital and he suggested warfarin for 1 year. I am almost at my 1 year mark and assume the warfarin will be discontinued at that time. I have 2 questions: First, how common is a thoracic outlet problem the cause? Second, what inherited conditons should I be tested for once the warfarin has been d/c ? Thanks

Answer:

With an upper extremity venous thrombosis, I would be more concerned about a mechanical obstruction from a thoracic outlet syndrome, cervical rib, or other anatomical obstructions rather than a hypercoagulable disorder. If you have not had the appropriate imaging studies, I would encourage you to discuss this issue with your hematologist.

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Response by:

Spero R Cataland, MD Spero R Cataland, MD
Associate Professor of Clinical Internal Medicine
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University