Venous thromboembolism and thrombophilia testing

Thrombophilia testing detects those with a hereditary or acquired prothrombotic states that predispose to venous thromboembolism (VTE). If one considers Virchow's triad, thrombophilia describes the changes in blood constituents that increase the risk of venous thrombosis. Inherited and acquired risk factors for thrombosis are discussed and an algorithm for management of acute deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) presented.