Differential Diagnosis
Posted by admin on May 12th, 2010Other conditions, such as trauma, can mimic deep venous thrombosis. Traumatic edema should be suspected if the patient noted its onset during or shortly after walking. Forcefully dorsiflexing the foot on sudden downward movement can rupture the plantar tendon or injure the
gastrocnemius muscle. The swelling lends to be asymmetric and confined, occurs above the ankle, is very tender, and is often associated with visible ecchymosis.
Palpation of the popliteal fossa is also important. A popliteal cyst, by extension into the calf, can cause upper leg swelling and later can compress the popliteal vein. Again, this diagnosis should be suspected if the edema develops initially during physical activity. A sonogram can easily confirm or eliminate this possibility.
Treatment
The objective is to prevent pulmonary embolism and chronic venous insufficiency.
Tags: Differential Diagnosis
