DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS IN
A TEN YEAR OLD GIRL POST LONG DISTANCE AIR FLIGHT
Chan DM, Hui S, Chan MO
University of British
Columbia, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Objective: To report on a rare
occurrence of deep vein thrombosis after a long air flight.
Methods: To evaluate the other
contributing factors to the episode of deep vein thrombosis in this young
age.
Results and case report: This young girl
presented with isolated deep vein inn the right femoral region with marked
asymmetry of both thighs with a 8 cm in mid thigh circumference. PT and
APTT were normal, platelet count and fibrinogen levels are not elevated.
Cardiolipin anticoagulants, normal, Protein C activity was reduced to 60%
and protein C antibodies were reduced to the same level. Protein S level
was 80%. The patient had venoplasty, the clot was organized and not
removable with the procedure. She was started on heparin initially followed
by oral anticoagulants. Her condition was improved.
Conclusion: Deep vein thrombosis
after long air flight has been reported. However its occurrence in the
young age is rate. In this case, the thrombosis was due to Protein C
deficiency. However, other genetic susceptibility to venous thrombosis has
to be considered. Factor V Leiden and G20210A mutation in the prothrombin
gene has to be evaluated in the complete work up of this patient and her
other family members.