Archambault Mark E, Chila Allison, Lundin Lauren, Walker Rachel
Mark E. Archambault is an associate professor in Lynchburg (Va.) College's Doctor of Medical Sciences program. At the time this article was written, he was director of research at High Point (N.C.) University, and Allison Chila, Lauren Lundin, and Rachel Walker were students in the PA program at High Point University. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
JAAPA. 2017 Nov;30(11):27-30. doi: 10.1097/01.JAA.0000525909.97848.53.
Primary effort thrombosis is a noniatrogenic deep vein thrombosis of the upper extremity. The incidence of this condition is 1 to 2 in 100,000 per year. The risk factors and typical patient population differ from other thrombotic events. Patients with primary effort thrombosis are typically young, athletic, and lack comorbidities. Due to its low incidence and unique risk factors, primary effort thrombosis often is misdiagnosed as a musculoskeletal injury. However, early recognition, initial testing with Doppler ultrasound, and immediate referral to a vascular center is essential to achieve optimal outcomes. This article reviews risk factors, pathogenesis, presentation, diagnosis, and acute management of primary effort thrombosis for primary care providers.
