Thoracic outlet syndrome vs axillary vein thrombosis

[ChessMaster3000]

This is from the FREE practice materials provided by the USMLE for Step 2CK:
jackhammer operator, pain/swelling in R armx3 days. moderately exacerbated by exertion. erythema/edema of RUE. cap refill time <3 sec. most like dx?
a: axillary-subclavian vein thrombosis
b: superficial thrombophleb of vein
c svc syndrome
d venous valvular insufficiency
e thoracic outlet syndrome

Listed answer is A. I chose E. I did some looking and on Medscape it appears that A can CAUSE E. Bad question?

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[bwmd]

I previously wrote up explanations for that question set, which are available here. #28.

Not really a bad question. The patient has clinical symptoms of DVT with a compatible history. DVT is an uncommon cause of thoracic outlet syndrome (which on tests will usually be related to a cervical rib or somesuch). Thoracic outlet is more commonly chronic, with different findings, such as diminished pulses, delayed cap refill, arm claudication, discoloration. Proximal outlet obstruction can cause subclavian steal, another test favorite.