Venous Thromboembolism - Management Differential Diagnosis

Differential Diagnosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis  

Since pain and swelling are common presenting complaints, deep vein thrombosis must be differentiated from other causes including muscle strain, rupture or tear; leg swelling in a paralyzed leg; lymphangitis or lymphedema; cellulitis; ruptured popliteal cyst (Baker’s cyst); and venous insufficiency.  

Pulmonary Embolism  

For pulmonary embolism, conditions that need to be ruled out include cardiogenic shock, cardiac tamponade, aortic dissection, pneumonia, and massive myocardial infarction.