Differential Diagnosis for Arm DVT
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) source: Given the presentation of arm DVT, it's crucial to consider the risk of PE, as the upper extremity DVT can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Central venous catheter-related thrombosis: This is a common cause of upper extremity DVT, especially in patients with central lines or PICC lines.
- Effort thrombosis (Paget-Schroetter syndrome): This condition is caused by repetitive motion or exertion of the arm, leading to thrombosis of the subclavian or axillary vein.
- Thoracic outlet syndrome: Compression or injury to the subclavian vein due to thoracic outlet syndrome can increase the risk of DVT.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Superior vena cava syndrome: Obstruction of the superior vena cava can cause facial and arm swelling, and it's essential to consider this diagnosis to avoid delayed treatment.
- Aortic dissection: Although rare, aortic dissection can cause arm swelling and pain, and it's crucial to rule out this condition due to its high mortality rate.
- Rare diagnoses
- Tumoral thrombosis: Rarely, a tumor can cause thrombosis in the arm veins.
- Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH): This rare condition can increase the risk of thrombosis, including arm DVT.
- Antithrombin III deficiency: This inherited condition can increase the risk of recurrent thrombosis, including arm DVT.