Our Summary

Mondor’s disease (MD) is a rare condition where a cord-like thickening, similar to a hardened vein, can be felt under the skin. It usually improves on its own within one to two months without needing specific treatment. The disease can appear in three main areas: the front and sides of the chest and abdomen, the top and sides of the penis, and the upper arm, usually after surgery in the armpit. Doctors generally diagnose Mondor’s disease based on a physical exam. However, in some cases, it might be linked to another underlying illness, such as cancer, a higher than normal likelihood of blood clotting, or inflammation of the blood vessels. Therefore, it’s important to correctly identify Mondor’s disease, check for any possible underlying diseases, and avoid unnecessary tests or treatments. This paper provides a thorough review of the clinical features of Mondor’s disease.

FAQs

  1. What is Mondor’s disease and how is it diagnosed?
  2. What areas of the body does Mondor’s disease primarily affect?
  3. Is Mondor’s disease linked to any other underlying illnesses?

Doctor’s Tip

When discussing superficial thrombophlebitis surgery with a patient, a doctor might advise them to keep the affected area elevated and apply warm compresses to help reduce swelling and discomfort. They may also recommend wearing compression stockings to improve blood flow and prevent further clot formation. It’s important for patients to follow post-operative care instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery progress. Additionally, the doctor may suggest avoiding activities that could increase the risk of developing blood clots, such as sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving.

Suitable For

Patients with Mondor’s disease who have severe pain, significant swelling, or complications such as skin ulceration may be recommended for superficial thrombophlebitis surgery. Additionally, patients who do not respond to conservative treatments such as pain management, compression therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications may also be considered for surgery. It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their condition.

Timeline

Before superficial thrombophlebitis surgery:

  1. Patient notices a cord-like thickening under the skin, similar to a hardened vein.
  2. Patient may experience pain, redness, and swelling in the affected area.
  3. Patient seeks medical attention and undergoes a physical exam to diagnose Mondor’s disease.
  4. Doctor may order additional tests to rule out any underlying illnesses, such as cancer or blood clotting disorders.

After superficial thrombophlebitis surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove the affected vein or blood clot.
  2. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort after the surgery.
  3. Patient is advised to rest and elevate the affected limb to reduce swelling.
  4. Patient may be prescribed pain medication and blood thinners to prevent further blood clots.
  5. Patient follows up with their doctor for regular check-ups to monitor their recovery and prevent any complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the reason for recommending surgery for my superficial thrombophlebitis?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of the surgery in treating superficial thrombophlebitis?
  4. What is the recovery process like after the surgery?
  5. Will I need to take any medications or follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for superficial thrombophlebitis that I should consider?
  7. How long will it take for me to fully recover from the surgery?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes I should make to prevent superficial thrombophlebitis from recurring in the future?
  9. How frequently should I follow up with you after the surgery?
  10. Are there any warning signs or symptoms that I should watch out for after the surgery that may indicate complications?

Reference

Authors: Amano M, Shimizu T. Journal: Intern Med. 2018 Sep 15;57(18):2607-2612. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.0495-17. Epub 2018 May 18. PMID: 29780120