Streptokinase and deep vein thrombosis.

Five patients with deep vein thrombosis were given streptokinase. Five others with similar phlebograms were given anticoagulants, and the results assessed by examining changes in the iliac, femoral, and calf segments of the phlebograms when repeated 7-10 days later. Those of the anticoagulant group were unchanged. Four of the five given streptokinase had a reduction in the size and extent of their thrombosis. Fresh thrombus surrounded by flowing blood was lysed. Thrombus completely blocking a vein was not lysed.The indications for the use of streptokinase in deep vein thrombosis are reviewed.