Varicose veins are a risk factor for deep venous thrombosis in general practice patients

VASA ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 41 (5) ◽  
pp. 360-365 ◽  
Author(s):  
Müller-Bühl ◽  
Leutgeb ◽  
Engeser ◽  
N. Achankeng ◽  
Szecsenyi ◽  
...  

Background: The role of varicose veins (VV) as a risk factor for development of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is still controversial. The aim of this study in primary care was to determine the impact of varicosity as a potential risk factor for developing DVT. Patients and methods: During the observation period between 01-Jan-2008 and 01-Jan-2011, all cases with VV (ICD code I83.9) and DVT (ICD codes I80.1 - I80.9) were identified out of the CONTENT primary care register (Heidelberg, Germany). The exposure of VV and DVT was based solely on ICD coding without regarding the accuracy of the diagnosis. The covariates age, gender, surgery, hospitalization, congestive heart failure, malignancy, pregnancy, hormonal therapy, and respiratory infection were extracted for each patient. Multivariate binary logistic regression was performed in order to assess potential risk factors for DVT. The SAS procedure “PROC GENMOD” (SAS version 9.2, 64-bit) was parameterised accordingly. A potential cluster effect (patients within practices) was regarded in the regression model. Results: There were 132 out of 2,357 (5.6 %) DVT episodes among patients with VV compared to 728 out of 80,588 (0.9 %) in the patient cohort without VV (p < 0.0001). An increased risk of DVT was associated with previous DVT (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 9.07, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 7.78 - 10.91), VV (OR 7.33 [CI 6.14 - 8.74]), hospitalization during the last 6 months (OR 1.69 [CI 1.29 - 2.22]), malignancy (OR 1.55 [CI 1.19 - 2.02]), and age (OR 1.02 [CI 1.01 - 1.03]). Conclusions: There are strong associations between VV and DVT in a general practice population with documented VV. Special medical attention is required for patients with VV, a history of previous venous thromboembolism, comorbid malignancy, and recent hospital discharge, particularly those with a combination of these factors.

Blood ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 122 (21) ◽  
pp. 4799-4799
Author(s):  
Soudabeh Hosseeini ◽  
Ebrahim Kalantari ◽  
Akbar Dorgalaleh ◽  
Arash Rozei ◽  
Marzieh Jafari ◽  
...  

Background Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of a thrombus within a deep vein that frequently occurs after surgical procedures, trauma, in the presence of cancer and immobilization conditions. DVT is a major health problem that causes high rate of morbidity and mortality in the general population. Hyper coagulation states such as antithrombin-III, protein-C and protein-S deficiencies, contribute to formation of DVT. Congenital and acquired gene mutations are other risk factors that stimulate formation of thrombus. Our aims in this study was to molecularly analyze the patients with DVT and assess the impact of common mutations of MTHFR (C677T) (A1298C), PAI-1, Prothrombin 20210 and FV Leiden mutation on occurrence of deep venous thrombosis. Methods This long-term study was conducted from June 2009 to July 2013 on 221 patients with deep venues thrombosis. Two hundred and twenty-one age and sex matched individuals were also chosen as control group. The diagnosis of venous thromboembolic disease was based on patient’s history, clinical findings and D-dimer test. Finally deep venous thrombosis was confirmed with Doppler ultrasonography. In addition, all participants were asked to complete a standardized questionnaire on acquired risk factors for venous thrombosis. After confirmation of DVT, both groups were assessed molecularly for five mutations including, MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, PAI-1 4G/5G, Prothrombin 20210 and FV Leiden. The relationship between these mutations and the risk of DVT was calculated using logistic regression and expressed as an OR with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results The mean age of patients and control group were 38±0.8 and 3.7± 0.7 years. Our results revealed that the MTHFR C677T (OR 2.9, 95% 95% CI 1.1 to 7.5) and MTHFR A1298C in heterozygote manner (OR 4.3, 95% CI 1.4 to 13.7) were each associated with an increased risk of DVT. The OR associated with being a carrier of the PAI-1 4G/5G genotype was 2.9 (95% CI 1.14 to 7.5). There was a 4-fold increased risk of DVT associated with Prothrombin 20210 mutation in heterozygote manner (OR 4.3, 95% CI 1.4 to 13.7). For patients who were heterozygous for FV Leiden mutation OR DVT was 2.6 (95% CI 1.3 to 5.0). Conclusion Our findings suggest that genetic risk factors have a contributory role on occurrence of DVT. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.


Hematology ◽  
2004 ◽  
Vol 2004 (1) ◽  
pp. 439-456 ◽  
Author(s):  
José A. López ◽  
Clive Kearon ◽  
Agnes Y.Y. Lee

Abstract Venous thromboembolism (VTE), manifested as either deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), is an extremely common medical problem, occurring either in isolation or as a complication of other diseases or procedures. Yet, despite its frequency, much remains to be learned regarding the pathogenic mechanisms that initiate VTE, about tailoring its treatment to the individual with her/his specific set of risk factors for recurrence, and about its medical management when associated with specific disease entities, such as cancer. These three topics are addressed in this chapter. In Section I, Drs. López and Conde discuss the mechanisms by which venous thrombi may be initiated on the vessel wall in the absence of anatomically overt vessel wall injury. The authors propose a model whereby tissue factor (TF)–bearing microvesicles that arise from cells of monocyte/macrophage lineage can fuse with activated endothelial cells in regions of vessel activation or inflammation and initiate blood coagulation. Key components of this model include docking of the microvesicles to the stimulated endothelium through P-selectin glycoprotein ligand–1 on their surfaces binding to either P-selectin or E-selectin on the endothelium, and the role of hypoxia during blood stasis in initiating local endothelial activation. Elevations in the levels of TF-bearing microvesicles associated with inflammatory conditions would help to explain the increased risk of thrombosis associated with infections and inflammatory states such as inflammatory bowel disease. In Section II, Dr. Clive Kearon discusses the risk factors for recurrent thrombosis and strategies for determining length of therapy and tailoring specific therapies through risk stratification. Those patients who experience VTE in association with a major reversible risk factor such as surgery are much less likely to experience a recurrence when anticoagulation is discontinued than are patients with a persistent risk factor, such as thrombophilia or cancer unresponsive to therapy. Those with a minor reversible risk factor, such as prolonged air travel, have an intermediate risk of recurrence after discontinuance of anticoagulant therapy. The author provides an algorithm for using risk assessment as a means of determining the length and type of therapy to be used to minimize the rate of recurrence while simultaneously diminishing the risk of bleeding associated with anticoagulation. In Section III, Dr. Agnes Lee updates the topic of VTE associated with malignancy. Patients with cancer make up approximately 20% of those presenting with first time VTE, and the presence of VTE forebodes a much poorer prognosis for patients with cancer, likely because of the morbidity associated with VTE itself and because VTE may herald a more aggressive cancer. Recent evidence indicates that low-molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) improve survival in patients with advanced cancer through mechanisms beyond their effect as anticoagulants. Because of their improved efficacy and safety and potential anti-neoplastic effect, the LMWHs have become the anticoagulants of choice for treating VTE associated with cancer.


1997 ◽  
Vol 78 (03) ◽  
pp. 0990-0992 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andreas Hillarp ◽  
Bengt Zӧller ◽  
Peter J Svensson ◽  
Bjӧrn Dahlbäck

SummaryA dimorphism in the 3’-untranslated region of the prothrombin gene (G to A transition at position 20210) has recently been reported to be associated with increases in plasma prothrombin levels and in the risk of venous thrombosis (1). We have examined the prothrombin dimorphism among 99 unselected outpatients with phlebography verified deep venous thrombosis, and in 282 healthy controls. The prevalence of the 20210 A allele was 7.1% (7/99) in the patient group, and 1.8% (5/282) in the healthy control group (p = 0.0095). The relative risk of venous thrombosis was calculated to be 4.2 (95% Cl, 1.3 to 13.6), and was still significant when adjustment was made for age, sex and the factor V:R506Q mutation causing APC resistance [odds ratio 3.8 (95% Cl, 1.1 13.2)]. As previously reported, 28% of the patients were carriers of the factor V:R506Q mutation. Thus, 34% (one patient carried both traits) of unselected patients with deep venous thrombosis were carriers of an inherited prothrombotic disorder. To sum up, our results confirm the 20210 A allele of the prothrombin gene to be an important risk factor for venous thrombosis.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhongqing Xu ◽  
Jingchun Fan ◽  
Jingjing Ding ◽  
Xianzhen Feng ◽  
Shunyu Tao ◽  
...  

Author(s):  
Andrea A. Joyce ◽  
Grace M. Styklunas ◽  
Nancy A. Rigotti ◽  
Jordan M. Neil ◽  
Elyse R. Park ◽  
...  

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on US adults’ smoking and quitting behaviors is unclear. We explored the impact of COVID-19 on smoking behaviors, risk perceptions, and reactions to text messages during a statewide stay-at-home advisory among primary care patients who were trying to quit. From May–June 2020, we interviewed smokers enrolled in a 12-week, pilot cessation trial providing text messaging and mailed nicotine replacement medication (NCT04020718). Twenty-two individuals (82% white, mean age 55 years), representing 88% of trial participants during the stay-at-home advisory, completed exit interviews; four (18%) of them reported abstinence. Interviews were thematically analyzed by two coders. COVID-19-induced environmental changes had mixed effects, facilitating quitting for some and impeding quitting for others. While stress increased for many, those who quit found ways to cope with stress. Generally, participants felt at risk for COVID-19 complications but not at increased risk of becoming infected. Reactions to COVID-19 and quitting behaviors differed across age groups, older participants reported difficulties coping with isolation (e.g., feeling disappointed when a text message came from the study and not a live person). Findings suggest that cessation interventions addressing stress and boredom are needed during COVID-19, while smokers experiencing isolation may benefit from live-person supports.


2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Leanne Kosowan ◽  
Alan Katz ◽  
Gayle Halas ◽  
Alexander Singer

Abstract Background Primary care provides an opportunity to introduce prevention strategies and identify risk behaviours. Algorithmic information technology such as the Risk Factor Identification Tool (RFIT) can support primary care counseling. This study explores the integration of the tablet-based RFIT in primary care clinics to support exploration of patient risk factor information. Methods Qualitative study to explore patients’ perspectives of RFIT. RFIT was implemented in two primary care clinics in Manitoba, Canada. There were 207 patients who completed RFIT, offered to them by eight family physicians. We conducted one-on-one patient interviews with 86 patients to capture the patient’s perspective. Responses were coded and categorized into five common themes. Results RFIT had a completion rate of 86%. Clinic staff reported that very few patients declined the use of RFIT or required assistance to use the tablet. Patients reported that the tablet-based RFIT provided a user-friendly interface that enabled self-reflection while in the waiting room. Patients discussed the impact of RFIT on the patient-provider interaction, utility for the clinician, their concerns and suggested improvements for RFIT. Among the patients who used RFIT 12.1% smoked, 21.2% felt their diet could be improved, 9.3% reported high alcohol consumption, 56.4% reported less than 150 min of PA a week, and 8.2% lived in poverty. Conclusion RFIT is a user-friendly tool for the collection of patient risk behaviour information. RFIT is particularly useful for patients lacking continuity in the care they receive. Information technology can promote self-reflection while providing useful information to the primary care clinician. When combined with practical tools and resources RFIT can assist in the reduction of risk behaviours.


2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-5 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maryam Rahiminejad ◽  
Anshul Rastogi ◽  
Shirish Prabhudesai ◽  
David Mcclinton ◽  
Peter MacCallum ◽  
...  

Aims. Colour doppler ultrasonography (CDUS) is widely used in the diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT); however, the number of scans positive for above knee DVT is low. The present study evaluates the reliability of the D-dimer test combined with a clinical probability score (Wells score) in ruling out an above knee DVT and identifying patients who do not need a CDUS. Materials and Method. This study is a retrospective audit and reaudit of a total of 816 outpatients presenting with suspected lower limb DVT from March 2009 to March 2010 and from September 2011 to February 2012. Following the initial audit, a revised clinical diagnostic pathway was implemented. Results. In our initial audit, seven patients (4.9%) with a negative D-dimer and a low Wells score had a DVT. On review, all seven had a risk factor identified that was not included in the Wells score. No patient with negative D-dimer and low Wells score with no extra clinical risk factor had a DVT on CDUS (negative predictive value 100%). A reaudit confirmed adherence to our revised clinical diagnostic pathway. Conclusions. A negative D-dimer together with a low Wells score and no risk factors effectively excludes a lower limb DVT and an ultrasound is unnecessary in these patients.


Open Heart ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. e001425
Author(s):  
Marc Meller Søndergaard ◽  
Johannes Riis ◽  
Karoline Willum Bodker ◽  
Steen Møller Hansen ◽  
Jesper Nielsen ◽  
...  

AimLeft bundle branch block (LBBB) is associated with an increased risk of heart failure (HF). We assessed the impact of common ECG parameters on this association using large-scale data.Methods and resultsUsing ECGs recorded in a large primary care population from 2001 to 2011, we identified HF-naive patients with a first-time LBBB ECG. We obtained information on sex, age, emigration, medication, diseases and death from Danish registries. We investigated the association between the PR interval, QRS duration, and heart rate and the risk of HF over a 2-year follow-up period using Cox regression analysis.Of 2471 included patients with LBBB, 464 (18.8%) developed HF during follow-up. A significant interaction was found between QRS duration and heart rate (p<0.01), and the analyses were stratified on these parameters. Using a QRS duration <150 ms and a heart rate <70 beats per minute (bpm) as the reference, all groups were statistically significantly associated with the development of HF. Patients with a QRS duration ≥150 ms and heart rate ≥70 bpm had the highest risk of developing HF (HR 3.17 (95% CI 2.41 to 4.18, p<0.001). There was no association between the PR interval and HF after adjustment.ConclusionProlonged QRS duration and higher heart rate were associated with increased risk of HF among primary care patients with LBBB, while no association was observed with PR interval. Patients with LBBB with both a prolonged QRS duration (≥150 ms) and higher heart rate (≥70 bpm) have the highest risk of developing HF.


2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
pp. 204209862098569
Author(s):  
Phyo K. Myint ◽  
Ben Carter ◽  
Fenella Barlow-Pay ◽  
Roxanna Short ◽  
Alice G. Einarsson ◽  
...  

Background: Whilst there is literature on the impact of SARS viruses in the severely immunosuppressed, less is known about the link between routine immunosuppressant use and outcome in COVID-19. Consequently, guidelines on their use vary depending on specific patient populations. Methods: The study population was drawn from the COPE Study (COVID-19 in Older People), a multicentre observational cohort study, across the UK and Italy. Data were collected between 27 February and 28 April 2020 by trained data-collectors and included all unselected consecutive admissions with COVID-19. Load (name/number of medications) and dosage of immunosuppressant were collected along with other covariate data. Primary outcome was time-to-mortality from the date of admission (or) date of diagnosis, if diagnosis was five or more days after admission. Secondary outcomes were Day-14 mortality and time-to-discharge. Data were analysed with mixed-effects, Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models using non-users of immunosuppressants as the reference group. Results: In total 1184 patients were eligible for inclusion. The median (IQR) age was 74 (62–83), 676 (57%) were male, and 299 (25.3%) died in hospital (total person follow-up 15,540 days). Most patients exhibited at least one comorbidity, and 113 (~10%) were on immunosuppressants. Any immunosuppressant use was associated with increased mortality: aHR 1.87, 95% CI: 1.30, 2.69 (time to mortality) and aOR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.01–2.88 (14-day mortality). There also appeared to be a dose–response relationship. Conclusion: Despite possible indication bias, until further evidence emerges we recommend adhering to public health measures, a low threshold to seek medical advice and close monitoring of symptoms in those who take immunosuppressants routinely regardless of their indication. However, it should be noted that the inability to control for the underlying condition requiring immunosuppressants is a major limitation, and hence caution should be exercised in interpretation of the results. Plain Language Summary Regular Use of Immune Suppressing Drugs is Associated with Increased Risk of Death in Hospitalised Patients with COVID-19 Background: We do not have much information on how the COVID-19 virus affects patients who use immunosuppressants, drugs which inhibit or reduce the activity of the immune system. There are various conflicting views on whether immune-suppressing drugs are beneficial or detrimental in patients with the disease. Methods: This study collected data from 10 hospitals in the UK and one in Italy between February and April 2020 in order to identify any association between the regular use of immunosuppressant medicines and survival in patients who were admitted to hospital with COVID-19. Results: 1184 patients were included in the study, and 10% of them were using immunosuppressants. Any immunosuppressant use was associated with increased risk of death, and the risk appeared to increase if the dose of the medicine was higher. Conclusion: We therefore recommend that patients who take immunosuppressant medicines routinely should carefully adhere to social distancing measures, and seek medical attention early during the COVID-19 pandemic.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document