Suppurative thrombophlebitis

Q: Fungi are more common in peripheral vein suppurative thrombophlebitis than in superior/inferior vena cava suppurative thrombophlebitis?

A) True
B) False


Answer: B

Though common sense may say that fungi should be more common in peripheral vein suppurative thrombophlebitis, but Fungi are more common in superior/inferior vena cava suppurative thrombophlebitis. This is particularly related to total parenteral nutrition (TPN) infusion.

This is again a good reminder of discontinuation of "lines" if they are not needed.


References:

1. Khan EA, Correa AG, Baker CJ. Suppurative thrombophlebitis in children: a ten-year experience. Pediatr Infect Dis J 1997; 16:63.

2. Strinden WD, Helgerson RB, Maki DG. Candida septic thrombosis of the great central veins associated with central catheters. Clinical features and management. Ann Surg 1985; 202:653.