Deep Venous Thrombosis of the Lower Extremity Associated with Protein C and/or S Deficiencies

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Protein C and S deficiencies are frequently described as causes of the hypercoagulable states. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical features and prognosis of deep venous thrombosis associated with protein C and/or S deficiencies and to determine an adequate treatment modality for such cases. METHOD: A total of consecutive 42 patients with deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremity were seen in our hospital between September 2000 and August 2002. Hypercoagulability studies were done before systemic anticoagulation therapy, and the diagnosis of protein C and/or S deficiencies was confirmed if antigenic protein C and/or S levels were less than 60%. RESULT: Seven patients (16.7%) were diagnosed with deep venous thrombosis associated with protein C and/or S deficiencies. Of these, 5 patients with acute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis were treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis therapy, and 2 with systemic anticoagulation therapy. There were no major complications or clinically detectable pulmonary emboli. CONCLUSION: Protein C and/or S deficiencies are one of the common causes of deep venous thrombosis. Considering that patients with deep venous thrombosis and protein C and/or S deficiencies should be treated with life-long anticoagulation for the prevention of recurrence, patients presenting with deep venous thrombosis without evidence of other risk factors should be evaluated for hypercoagulable states.