Trousseau syndrome
Pronunciation: troo-SOH SIN-drome
A paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by migratory thrombophlebitis associated with gastrointestinal malignancies.
Full Definition
Trousseau syndrome is a well-recognized paraneoplastic phenomenon consisting of spontaneous, recurrent, and migratory venous thromboembolism in patients with underlying malignancy, particularly pancreatic and gastric adenocarcinomas. Named after Armand Trousseau who first described the association, this syndrome often presents as superficial migratory thrombophlebitis affecting unusual venous sites that are resistant to standard anticoagulation. The pathophysiology involves tumor-induced hypercoagulability through various mechanisms including tissue factor expression, cytokine release, and platelet activation. Trousseau syndrome may be the presenting manifestation of occult gastrointestinal malignancy, particularly pancreatic cancer, and its presence generally indicates advanced disease with poor prognosis. Treatment requires aggressive anticoagulation, typically with low molecular weight heparin.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Trousseau' as an eponym. Distinguish from Trousseau sign in hypocalcemia.
In Context
- "The patient's recurrent migratory thrombophlebitis led to investigation for occult malignancy, revealing Trousseau syndrome secondary to pancreatic adenocarcinoma." — Internal medicine consultation
- "Despite therapeutic anticoagulation, the patient continued to develop new thrombotic events consistent with Trousseau syndrome." — Hematology-oncology note