Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 4/4/2011

Question
I had an M.R.I. with contrast 3 weeks ago, when they first put in the contrast solution through the vein on the upper side of my elbow there was an intense burning sensation, now i have a large lump about 2" in the length of my vein it is raised up about the size of a kidney bean, it is very hard and painful, the pain feels almost as if it"s in my joint and throbs up my bicep, I have been putting warm compresses on it for the last two weeks form articles I've read online, it's not helping! WHAT IS IT AND WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Answer
You probably have a phlebitis in the vein (an inflammation). Since it has not resolved in 3 weeks, it is probably wise to have it evaluated either by your primary physician or in an ER to make sure there is no infection going on.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston