Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

Alternative Names: Phlegmasia alba dolens

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is an uncommon, severe form of deep venous thrombosis (blood clots in the vein), usually in the upper leg.

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens Symptoms

Pain, swelling, and bluish-skin coloring affect the area below the blocked vein.

Tests and Exams

For information on diagnosis, see: Deep venous thrombosis

Treatment of Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

For information on treatment, see: Deep venous thrombosis

Potential Complications

Continued clotting can lead to increased swelling. The swelling can interfere with blood flow. This complication is called phlegmasia alba dolens. It may lead to tissue death (gangrene) and the need for amputation.

When to Contact a Health Professional

See immediate medical help if an arm or leg is severely swollen, blue, or painful.

Ginsberg J. Peripheral venous disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 81.

Venous blood clot

Review Date: 9/26/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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