Unexpected outcome from Trousseau syndrome

• Main Authors: Anuruddha Abeyratne HMP, Thrumurthy Sri G, De Zoysa Merrenna IM, Samarasekera Dharmabandhu N
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2011-01-01
• Series: BMC Surgery
• Online Access: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2482/11/1

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Unprovoked superficial thrombophlebitis and subsequent venous thromboembolism are well-described albeit rare presenting features of advanced visceral malignancy that often manifest too late for curative intervention to be beneficial.</p> <p>Case Presentation</p> <p>We present the first reported case of early gastric carcinoma presenting with these paraneoplastic phenomena in an otherwise healthy farmer. The early presentation allowed for a curative partial gastrectomy, which itself was complicated by the presence of a deep vein thrombosis extending into the inferior vena cava. Fortunately, stabilization of the clot allowed for surgery to proceed without the need for a caval filter. The patient was referred for adjuvant chemotherapy and has since made an excellent recovery.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>This case provides new evidence for the presentation of superficial thrombophlebitis in early gastric carcinoma and the potential for curative surgery in such instances. A high index of suspicion and a prompt diagnostic workup are essential for timely planning and execution of surgery in these early albeit rare presentations.</p>