Thrombophlebitis/DVT is characterized by which of the following?

Thrombophlebitis, which often presents as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is characterized by the formation of a thrombus (blood clot) within a vein accompanied by inflammation of the vessel wall. This condition typically occurs in the lower extremities and is a result of factors such as venous stasis, endothelial injury, and altered coagulability.

The presence of inflammatory changes is significant, as they contribute to the symptoms associated with thrombophlebitis, such as pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. In cases of DVT, the clot could be either partial or complete, leading to different degrees of venous obstruction, which can ultimately impact blood flow and result in complications if left untreated.

In contrast, the other options describe different processes. A complete occlusion of an artery pertains to arterial thrombosis, not venous, while obstruction of a lymphatic vessel relates to lymphedema or other lymphatic conditions. Inflammation of the arterial wall is seen in conditions like arteritis, which is distinct from the inflammatory processes involved in thrombophlebitis. Understanding these distinctions reinforces the accurate characterization of thrombophlebitis and its underlying pathophysiology.