SVC obstruction

Definition

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.

Alternative Names

Causes

Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction is a relatively rare condition. Symptoms occur when something blocks the blood flowing back to the heart.

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 lymphoma, cancer of the lung that spreads, breast cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, and thymic tumors.

Superior vena cava obstruction can also be caused by noncancerous conditions that cause chronic fibrosis (scarring). These conditions include lung infections (such as tuberculosis), histoplasmosis infection, and thrombophlebitis.

Other causes of superior vena cava obstruction include blood clots in the superior vena cava, aortic aneurysm, constrictive pericarditis, and goiter.

References

Rice TW, Rodriguez MR, Light RW. The superior vena cava syndrome: clinical characteristics and evolving etiology. Medicine (Baltimore). 2006;85;1:37-42.

Wilson LD, Detterbeck FC, Yahalom J. Superior vena cava syndrome with malignant causes. N Engl J Med. 2007;356;18:1862-1869.