[Phlebitis of infectious etiology].

Various infections are sometimes at the origin of phlebitis. Because of the different therapeutic consequences, this etiology should be considered whether it is a case of deep phlebitis of a limb, migratory recurrent phlebitis, or the type of phlebitis called "iron wire". The principal diseases that may lead to phlebitis are : tuberculosis, typhoid fever, rickettsiosis, and streptococcal, staphylococcal, and pneumococcal infections. Certain viruses may have a role but so far there is no formal proof. Focal pathology of dental or tonsillar origin involves in some cases an aseptic venous lesion. Bacterial or mycotic suppurative thrombophlebitis related to an intravenous catheter is the price paid for the use, often unnecessarily, of this method of perfusion.