Painful Swollen Leg: Think Beyond DVT
Author Information
Author(s): Arumilli Buchi RB, Babu Vinayagam Lenin, Paul Ashok S
Primary Institution: The Regional Sarcoma Centre, Manchester Royal Infirmary
Hypothesis
Can tumors be misdiagnosed as deep vein thrombosis in patients with a painful swollen leg?
Conclusion
Tumors should be considered in patients with a painful swollen leg, even when deep vein thrombosis is suspected.
Supporting Evidence
- Three patients were misdiagnosed with DVT or Baker's cyst before being identified as having tumors.
- Initial D-dimer levels were misleading in the diagnosis of DVT.
- Careful evaluation is crucial to avoid delays in treatment for serious conditions.
Takeaway
If your leg hurts and is swollen, it might not just be a blood clot; it could be something more serious like a tumor.
Methodology
Case report of three patients initially treated for DVT or Baker's cyst, later diagnosed with tumors.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in diagnosis due to initial misclassification of conditions.
Limitations
The study is based on a small number of cases, which may not represent the broader population.
Participant Demographics
Three patients: two females aged 59 and 70, and one male aged 69.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website