I have superficial clot in my leg, can this turn into a dvt?

Possible: Generally, superficial veins are not the ones that cause a deep vein thrombosis but anything is possible. I would work with your medical doctor and have it evaluated. You may need to see a vascular doctor for further treatment.

Vein thrombosis: Superf vein thrombosis needs to be evaluated by ultrasound for a few reasons identify location of clot, monitor potential progression to the deep system at t he junction points, and determine if there is reflux of the superficial system which would then need to be addressed. Also what was the antecedent event if there was one its less of a concern, if not a workup may be considered.

No: Superficial leg clots, or svts, are an annoyance but do not travel to the deep vein system to cause a dvt. Treatment is with an antiinflammatory like advil or aleve, (naproxen) walking, and use of graduated compression stockings. If you have frequent svts, you should have a vein evaluation and sometimes a blood-clotting disorder workup which involves blood tests as well as evaluating recent medications.

Yes: Some superficial blood clots can enter the deep system and this needs to be evaluated. Also there are cases when there may also be a deep vein thrombosis at the same time perhaps in a different location in the leg.Therefore sonogram is crucial.

Overall it is rare: The rare time when a superficial thrombophlebitis can lead to a deep venous thrombosis is when the superficial clot involves the junction between the superficial vein and the deep vein it drains into. The two best known junctions are the sapheno-femoral junction in the groin and the sapheno-popliteal junction behind the knee. If the clot is not at these locations it cannot lead to a dvt.

Yes: As much as i respect dr. Dunn and his knoweldge, I have to disagree withhim. Superficial clots can extend into the deep vein system as a deep vein clot. As a matter of fact this has been reported to occur as much as 24% of the time. The important thing is that is you ahve an ultrasound if you have a superficial clot or phlebitis. If there is no deep thrombosis, then treatment is as dr. Dunn said.