Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

• Illustrations
• Definition
• Symptoms
• Signs and tests

• Treatment
• Complications
• Calling your health care provider

Definition    Return to top

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

Symptoms    Return to top

Below the blocked vein, phlegmasia cerulea dolens produces swelling, bluish color, and pain.

Signs and tests    Return to top

See deep venous thrombosis.

Treatment    Return to top

See deep venous thrombosis.

Complications    Return to top

Progression of the clotting process in the vein may lead to increased swelling. This can cause a overall compromise of the circulation in the limb, affecting both the arteries and the veins. This complication is called phlegmasia alba dolens, which may lead to gangrene and require amputation.

Calling your health care provider    Return to top

See your health care provider, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or get to an emergency room immediately if an arm or leg is seriously swollen, blue, and painful.