Ultrasonography.  2025 May;44(3):171-188. 10.14366/usg.24120.

Ultrasound evaluation of clinical mimics of deep vein thrombosis: essential insights for radiologists in interpretation

• Im D
• Kwon LM
• Park SY
• Park MS
• Hong WJ

• KMID: 2567438
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14366/usg.24120

Abstract

Ultrasonography (US) is a sensitive and radiation-free technique for diagnosing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Therefore, when DVT is clinically suspected but not detected on US, radiologists should consider a range of alternative differential diagnoses. This review article presents the imaging findings of clinical conditions that mimic DVT, which can be distinguished using a multimodal radiologic approach. Additionally, DVT mimics can be categorized into two groups based on whether a flat or normal waveform is observed on Doppler US. This article details the imaging findings and clinical presentations of DVT mimics, organized by these classifications. This information may help radiologists make more accurate diagnoses, enabling patients to receive appropriate treatment in a timely manner.

Keyword

Venous thrombosis; Lower extremity deep vein thrombosis; Lower extremity; Ultrasonography; Diagnostic imaging