Superficial Vein Thrombosis and Hypercoagulable States: The Evidence

Aim: To assess the demographic features of superficial vein thrombosis and its relation with the occurrence of hypercoagulable states. Methods: Data were gathered from pertinent papers using a MEDLINE search and an exhaustive bibliography review. Studies were considered only when they contained material to superficial vein thrombosis and hypercoagulable states. Results: The difference among the patients and the methods used made the comparison difficult and did not allow a pool analysis of the data. Superficial vein thrombosis is a common condition, and its prevalence is underestimated. Several risk factors are associated with superficial vein thrombosis, and a strong relation was seen with certain thrombophilias. Conclusions: Although superficial vein thrombosis most often is perceived as benign, it can coexist with hypercoagulable states. In patients with spontaneous onset of superficial vein thrombosis, there should be a lower threshold in testing for hypercoagulable states.