title: Etiology and prevention of thromboembolic disease. Taming a complex circulatory malfunction.
abstract: Deep venous thrombosis is a complex process involving many factors in the circulatory system, an important one apparently being the intrinsic fibrinolytic system. Specific activators of the process include venous trauma and hypercoagulability states. In spite of efforts at prophylaxis, venous thrombosis will occur, a dangerous condition in itself and also a precursor of pulmonary embolism. Several schemes for prophylaxis, including drug regimens and mechanical means, have been tried, and future research will surely identify others. A patient's best protection against thrombosis at present, however, is a vigilant physician with a high index of suspicion who will expedite diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
mesh_terms: D020152:Antithrombin III Deficiency; D001241:Aspirin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001778:Blood Coagulation Disorders / Q000150:complications; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral / Q000009:adverse effects; D004087:Dihydroergotamine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006023:Glycoproteins / Q000172:deficiency; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D010298:Parity; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications; D011486:Protein C; D013442:Sulfinpyrazone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D014859:Warfarin / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D003276:Contraceptives, Oral; D006023:Glycoproteins; D011486:Protein C; D004087:Dihydroergotamine; D014859:Warfarin; D006493:Heparin; D001241:Aspirin; D013442:Sulfinpyrazone