Ch. Marketos, D. Bisirtzoglou, A. Zetos, G. Politis
DESCRIPTION:
Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is a manifestation of malignant or benign diseases obstructing return of blood flow through the superior vena cava (SVC), as a result of external pressure, direct invasion by the disease process or finally internal obstruction by thrombosis. The causes of SVCS are most commonly malignant diseases, especially lung cancer and lymphomas. Benign disorders are less often causative agents, but in recent times thrombosis from central venous instrumentation (catheters, pacemakers, port-a-cath, etc.) is an increasing in frequency event. The typical symptoms include dyspnea, persistent cough, chest pain, dysphagia, headaches, facial edema and erythema, swelling neck and/or arms. Dilatation of the veins in the neck, chest and upper extremity are tell-tale signs of SVCS. Establishing the underlying etiology of SVCS is important for the specific treatment regimen. The diagnosis is based on CXR, computed tomography scanning, MRI, contrast venography and other diagnostic techniques such as broncoscopy, transthoracic biopsy, mediastinoscopy and exploratory thoracotomy. Treatments depend on the cause of the disease and include radiation, chemotherapy, anticoagulation, balloon angioplasty and stents, surgery, and additional measures such as administration of diuretic agents, steroids and salt restriction. The prognosis depends on the underlying cause of the obstruction.
INFORMATION:
Periodicity: Iatriki 2012, 101(6):401—416
Origin Center: Pulmonary Department, “Agios Savas” Anticancer Oncologic Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
Keywords: Superior vena cana, obstruction, diagnosis, treatment
Corresponding Author: Α. Zetos, Pulmonary Department, “Agios Savas” Anticancer Oncologic Hospital, 171 Alexandras Ave., GR-115 22 Athens, Greece • e-mail: zetosa@yahoo.com