Deep Venous Thrombosis in Intravenous Cocaine Abuse Mimicking Septic Arthritis of the Shoulder

Authors:
  • MTMargaret Thurmond-Anderle
    Margaret Thurmond-Anderle
  • CDCharles P. Davis
    Charles P. Davis
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Abstract
We describe two patients with deep venous thrombosis of the upper extremity who initially were thought to have septic arthritis of the shoulder. These patients had a history of recent intravenous cocaine abuse. The diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis should be considered when a patient with a swollen shoulder has an appropriate history.