SVC obstruction

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SVC obstruction is a narrowing or blockage of the superior vena cava -- the second largest vein in the human body. The superior vena cava moves blood from the upper half of the body to the heart.

Superior vena cava obstruction; Superior vena cava syndrome

Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction is a relatively rare condition.

Most often it is caused by cancer or a tumor in the mediastinum (the area of the chest under the breastbone and between the lungs).

The types of cancer that can lead to this condition include:

• Breast cancer
• Lymphoma
• Metastatic lung cancer (lung cancer that spreads)
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Thymic tumors

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Superior vena cava obstruction can also be caused by noncancerous conditions that cause scarring. These conditions include:

• Histoplasmosis infection
• Inflammation of a vein ( thrombophlebitis)
• Lung infections (such as tuberculosis)

Other causes of superior vena cava obstruction include:

• Aortic aneurysm
• Blood clots in the superior vena cava
• Constrictive pericarditis
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter)

Catheters placed in the large veins of the upper arm and neck may cause blood clots in the superior vena cava.

Review Date: 01/05/2011
Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).