Deep vein thrombosis differential diagnosis

Editors-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. Associate Editor-In-Chief: Ujjwal Rastogi, MBBS [mailto:urastogi@perfuse.org]

Overview
Only 25% of the patient evaluated for DVT have the disease. DVT is characterized by pain and swelling of the limb, which are not specific. Numerous patients with DVT are asymptomatic.

Differential Diagnosis
Following conditions should be kept in mind while diagnosis Deep vein thrombosis:
 * Muscle tear, strain of leg
 * Leg swelling in a paralyzed limb
 * Lymphangitis or lymph obstruction
 * Venous insufficiency
 * Popliteal/Baker's cyst
 * Cellulitis
 * Knee abnormality