Superior vena cava syndrome

Superior vena cava vein syndrome is a clinical condition that occurs due to obstruction of the superior vena cava and consequent impaired venous return from the head, chest, and arms to the right atrium. Increased venous pressure causes edema in the head, neck, and arms, often accompanied by cyanosis, plethora, and dilated subcutaneous blood vessels. Both internal and external radiation obstruction can cause Superior vena cava vein syndrome. This clinical condition most commonly occurs in patients with cancer. Treatment and prognosis depend on the underlying disease that caused this syndrome.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology