Axillary-Subclavian Venous Thrombosis following a weightlifting injury in an elderly patient: a case report.

Abstract

Background: Axillary-subclavian venous thrombosis (ASVT) is a type of upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT). UEDVTs are classified as either primary or secondary depending on their etiology. Although uncommon, clinicians should be aware of the clinical presentation of UEDVT as timely diagnosis and early treatment is critical in preventing possible post-thrombotic complications.

Case presentation: We report a rare case of axillary-subclavian and internal jugular vein thrombosis in the absence of clear risk factors in a 78-year-old male weightlifter who presented to the office with two-week duration of left upper extremity pain and swelling following strenuous exercise at the gym.

Summary: The combination of unusual thrombi location, in addition to the unusual absence of existing thoracic-outlet compression or indwelling medical hardware, makes our case of UEDVT especially uncommon. Clinicians should be aware of this rare disease due to the debilitating effects both in the short and long term.