A Case of Septic Superficial Thrombophlebitis of Varicose Veins Associated with Yersinia enterocolitica and Propionibacterium

Abstract

A patient with a history of varicose veins developed septic superficial thrombophlebitis in the great saphenous vein (GSV). Blood cultures grew Yersinia enterocolitica and Propionibacterium. Ultrasonography showed thrombus extending into the deep venous system, which exposed the patient to the risk of septic emboli. This risk, together with the contraindication to anticoagulation due to the patient's gastric erosions and ulceration, prompted the decision to surgically remove the thrombus. Although superficial thrombophlebitis is common in the setting of varicose veins, septic superficial thrombophlebitis is rare, especially due to Yersinia infection.