Superior vena cava syndrome

SUPERIOR VENA CAVA SYNDROME

• Elesyia D. Outlaw

• March 9, 2004

SVC Syndrome

• Constellation of signs and symptoms caused by obstruction of blood flow in the superior vena cava.

• Secondary to external compression, invasion, constriction or thrombosis of the SVC

• Can be partial or complete obstruction

SCVS (cont)

• Leads to increased venous pressure and results in edema of the head, neck, arms, and upper chest

• Dilated veins on the chest wall

• Pleural/pericardial effusions

• Cerebral edema/Increased IC pressure

Patients

Patients

Clinical Features of SVC

• SYMPTOMS FREQUENCY

• Short of Breath 50%

• Chest Pain 20%

• Cough 20%

• Dysphagia 20%

• Markman, M. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 1999

Clinical Features of SVCS

• SIGNS FREQUENCY

• Thorax Vein Distention 70%

• Neck Vein Distention 60%

• Facial Swelling 45%

• UE/Trunk Swelling 40%

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