Recurrent thrombosis and survival after a first venous thrombosis of the upper extremity.

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the consequences of a first venous thrombosis in the upper extremity. We studied the incidence of, survival, and risk factors for recurrence in a follow-up study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We followed up 224 patients 18 to 70 years of age after a first venous thrombosis of the arm. Information was collected through anticoagulation clinics, the national death registry, discharge letters, and questionnaires. The median follow-up was 3 years, during which time 30 patients experienced a recurrent event, yielding an incidence rate of 43.2 per 1000 person-years. Survival was reduced: 55 of 224 patients died, which was 5.4-fold higher than age- and sex-adjusted population rates (standardized mortality ratio, 5.4; 95% CI, 4.2 to 7.0). The risk of recurrence was 2-fold higher in women than in men (hazard ratio, 1.8; 95% CI, 0.9 to 3.9). A central venous catheter at the time of first thrombosis was associated with a reduced risk of recurrence. A body mass index > or =25 kg/m(2) and a first nonsubclavian thrombosis appeared to increase the risk of a recurrent event. Prothrombotic mutation carriers did not appear to have an increased recurrence risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of recurrence was high, with women, patients with body mass index > or =25 kg/m(2), and patients with a first nonsubclavian vein thrombosis having a higher risk of recurrence. Patients with a first venous thrombosis of the arm have a poor vital prognosis.