Foreign Body Causing Superficial Venous Thrombosis and Subsequent Pulmonary Embolism: a Case Report

Background: Superficial venous thrombosis (SVT) is common, but often perceived to be a non-serious condition. This pathology should not be overlooked as it can lead to complications that may require anticoagulation. We present a case of SVT complicated by pulmonary embolism (PE) revealing an unexpected cause.

Case Summary: A 41-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department for chest pain and intense sudden pain of the left groin, revealing an extended great saphenous SVT associated with a PE. Further investigation showed that the thrombosis was caused by a sewing needle located between the superficial femoral artery and the femoral vein. Successful extraction was performed in a vascular surgery unit.

Discussion: Superficial venous thrombosis can be associated with deep venous thrombosis and PE, and can be caused by local inflammation, direct compression, and foreign bodies. These aetiologies should be investigated if no evident cause to SVT is found.