Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is an uncommonly encountered condition in
childhood and, as a consequence, the diagnosis may be overlooked. We
describe the first two cases of DVT occurring in children with Duchenn
e muscular dystrophy. Both brothers were wheelchair-bound for protract
ed periods. The first case occurred following spinal fusion for scolio
sis. The second occurred spontaneously following immobilisation in hos
pital while undergoing investigation for a ureteric stone. Serological
investigations to outrule an underlying thrombogenic cause showed no
deficiency of protein C or antithrombin III nor the presence of lupus
anticoagulant in either patient. The presence of flaccid lower extremi
ties resulting in prolonged immobilisation combined with an ineffectiv
e muscle pump for venous return may have predisposed the patients in o
ur series. The issue of prophylaxis should now be actively considered
in such patients in high-risk circumstances.