Glossary · Risk

DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

Also called: Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Definition: Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in the deep veins, most often in the legs. Symptoms include unilateral leg swelling, pain, warmth, and erythema. DVT can embolize to cause pulmonary embolism. Oral estrogen modestly raises DVT risk; transdermal estrogen does not.

Detailed definition

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) typically presents as unilateral leg swelling, calf pain or aching, warmth, and erythema. It most commonly involves the deep veins of the lower extremity (popliteal, femoral, iliac veins), but upper-extremity and central DVTs occur. Diagnosis is by compression ultrasound. Treatment is anticoagulation — typically a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) for 3+ months, depending on whether the DVT was provoked or unprovoked and on bleeding risk. DVT in the proximal leg veins carries the highest risk of embolizing to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). Risk factors include immobility, surgery, malignancy, hormonal contraception, oral estrogen HRT, pregnancy, obesity, smoking, and inherited thrombophilias.

Why it matters in menopause

For women on HRT, any leg-specific symptoms warrant evaluation. Counseling at HRT initiation should include awareness of unilateral leg swelling/pain as a reason to seek care promptly.

Sources

External references: Wikipedia.

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