SPONTANEOUS AND NONSPONTANEOUS INTERNAL JUGULAR-VEIN THROMBOSIS

Nonspontaneous internal jugular vein thrombosis (IJVT) is an uncommon condition historically associated with deep neck infections during the pre‐antibiotic era. Today, trauma to the internal jugular vein from catheterization and repeated intravenous injections by drug users are the leading causes of thrombosis, with direct extension of tumor being a rare cause. Spontaneous IJVT occurs when there are no apparent predisposing causes, although many of these patients may harbor an occult malignant neoplasm. Therefore, careful investigation and follow‐up are imperative in these patients. The diagnosis of IJVT is readily confirmed by contrast‐enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Management of IJVT involves anticoagulation, antibiotics, and with few indications for surgical intervention. Copyright © 1990 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., A Wiley Company