Venothromboembolic signs and medical eponyms: Part II. Issue 182 (October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ye, Fan; Tekiner, Halil; Yale, Eileen S.; Mazza, Joseph J.; Stalvey, Carolyn; Yale, Steven H.
• Is Part Of: Thrombosis research. Issue 182(2019)
• Page Start: 205
• Page End: 213
• Publication Date: 2019-10
• Subjects: DVT deep venous thrombosis -- PE pulmonary embolism -- VTE venothromboembolism; Venothromboembolism -- Eponyms -- Signs -- Cough; Thrombosis -- Periodicals; 616.135
• DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2019.06.011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0049-3848

Abstract

Abstract: Eponyms were established to serve the purpose of honoring individuals who have made important observations and discoveries. The use of eponyms remains controversial, and important questions have been raised regarding their appropriateness. Although there have been instances where eponyms were abandoned, the remainder are largely embedded within the established literature making their disappearance unlikely. Physicians used a variety of techniques to describe signs of medical eponyms as a method for diagnosing deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE) or venothromboembolism (VTE). These methods (observation, palpation, pressure, or maneuvers), were detected during the physical examination and using bedside sphygmomanometer or radiographic imaging. Reviewed are both common and less frequently encountered VTE eponyms identified during the physical examination and radiologic imaging. Most of these signs have not been further studied and, therefore, there is a lack of information regarding their accuracy and reliability in clinical practice. Highlights: Signs were detected using observation, percussion, palpation, and sphygmomanometer. Signs do not appear to be useful in distinguishing patients with or without DVT. It is unknown if a combination of signs and symptoms improves diagnostic accuracy. The use of eponyms confers historical, literary, and cultural information.