Follow-up study of patients with clinically suspected deep venous thrombosis and a normal venogram.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the clinical course in patients with clinically suspected deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the leg and a normal venogram.


METHODS
Prospective study over 15 months with a follow-up of 4-12 (median 8.6) months after a normal venogram. A questionnaire survey was performed at follow-up. Information from general practitioners and medical records was reviewed. An alternative diagnosis was established at presentation and at the time of follow-up.


METHODS
The Department of Internal Medicine in a Danish university hospital.


METHODS
A total of 133 consecutive out-patients referred with clinical suspicion of DVT and a normal venogram.


METHODS
The state of symptoms at follow-up. The frequency of referrals to hospitals and contacts with general practitioners or medical specialists in the follow-up period. Clinical diagnoses provided at presentation and at follow-up.


RESULTS
The follow-up response rate was 78% (n = 104). The symptoms were still present at follow-up in 53 (51%) patients. More than half of the patients had been referred to medical facilities for the same disorder. Diagnoses could be established in 93 (70%) of the 133 patients at presentation and in 119 (89%) at follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
The majority of patients with clinical signs and symptoms of a DVT and a normal venogram may require a follow-up surveillance programme to ensure correct diagnosis and adequate treatment. Further studies are recommended to confirm our results and to assess the cost-effectiveness.
Pedersen
L M
LM
Department of Internal Medicine G, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Lerche
A
A
Jørgensen
M
M
Urhammer
S
S
Steenberg
P
P
Jensen
R
R
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010690:Phlebography; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology