[Deep vein thrombosis of the lower limb : from diagnosis to treatment].

Abstract

When a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is suspected, management should begin with a well-defined diagnostic approach based on clinical evaluation and pre-test probability, D-dimer testing, and venous ultrasound. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, it is important to differentiate between proximal and distal DVT, as their treatment strategies differs. While numerous robust studies with a high level of evidence are available for proximal DVT, the optimal management of distal DVT remains debated. Overall, treatment is based on elastic compression and therapeutic anticoagulation, with direct oral anticoagulants used in most cases. The duration of anticoagulation mainly depends on the risk of venous thromboembolism recurrence.