Nerve Hematoma Mimicking DVT

This case study describes a patient who underwent an upper extremity venous examination to evaluate for possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Sonography showed no evidence of thrombus in the veins of the deep or superficial system. Adjacent to the veins of the peripheral arm, however, an enlarged hypoechoic structure was visualized that had a very similar appearance to DVT. With further imaging, hyperechoic linear bands were visualized at the proximal end of the hypoechoic structure. The appearance suggested that this structure was related to the median nerve, but its normal appearance was altered by a large mass inside the nerve sheath. Given the patient’s history, the finding most likely represents a nerve hematoma.

Source: Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography - June 26, 2013 Category: Radiology Authors: Gerding, A. L., Fox, T. B., Lown, L., Needleman, L. Tags: Case Studies Source Type: research