Gastrocnemius musculotendinous rupture: a condition confused with thrombophlebitis.
Over a 24-year interval I have seen 22 cases of rupture of the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle where it inserts into the soleus aponeurosis. The rupture may result in a swelling that is easily confused with thrombophlebitis and result in unnecessary hospitalization and anticoagulant therapy with its attendant expense and possible complications. The process is self-limiting and heals without sequelae in three to six weeks.
D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009132:Muscles / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D011859:Radiography; D012421:Rupture; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000175:diagnosis*