Migratory superficial thrombophlebitis is seen
## **Core Concept**
Migratory superficial thrombophlebitis, also known as Trousseau syndrome, is a condition characterized by recurring, migrating episodes of superficial thrombophlebitis. It is often associated with **malignancy**, particularly pancreatic cancer, due to the release of pro-coagulant substances by the tumor cells.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Trousseau syndrome is a paraneoplastic syndrome, meaning it is a condition caused by the immune response to a cancer, but not due to direct local effects of the tumor cells. The condition presents with recurring episodes of **superficial thrombophlebitis** that can migrate to different locations. This is due to a hypercoagulable state induced by the tumor. The correct answer, **pancreatic cancer**, is a well-known cause of Trousseau syndrome.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** While **lung cancer** can cause various paraneoplastic syndromes, it is not as commonly associated with migratory superficial thrombophlebitis as pancreatic cancer.
* **Option B:** **Breast cancer** can also lead to a hypercoagulable state and thromboembolic events, but it is not the most commonly associated cancer with Trousseau syndrome.
* **Option D:** **Colon cancer** can cause Trousseau syndrome but is less frequently associated with it compared to pancreatic cancer.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that the occurrence of **migratory superficial thrombophlebitis** should prompt an investigation for an underlying malignancy, particularly **pancreatic cancer**. This condition is one of the classic paraneoplastic syndromes and its recognition can lead to earlier diagnosis of cancer.
## **Correct Answer:** C. pancreatic cancer.