Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) is a treatable condition where varicose veins become swollen or painful. However, an Australian study found that a quarter of patients who were diagnosed with SVT also had DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a much more serious condition. "I think it's a good idea for anybody with superficial vein thrombosis to undergo routine ultrasound screening of the deep veins of their legs to exclude this very, very serious diagnosis" suggested the associate director of surgery of Mount Sinai School of Medicine to AJC News. SVT can be seen on the skin's surface and is treatable by physicians. An ultrasound can help detect a larger problem that hides in the deeper veins. Without treatment, DVT can result in pulmonary embolism, post-thrombotic syndrome, or even a loss of a leg.