A Case of Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Associated with Lung Cancer

Abstract

Superior vena cava syndrome occurs when extrinsic compression or intraluminal occlusion impedes blood flow through this vessel. The most common underlying cause is a malignant neoplasm, especially lung cancer. Superior vena cava syndrome generally appears in accordance with the development of a malignant neoplasm. We report a case with a massive pulmonary cancer manifested by facial flushing. The patient was a 62-year old man. He consulted our clinic in March of 2003 with a one-month history of flushing and edema of the face and neck. He also complained of palpitations and anorexia. On the initial consultation, the classical signs of superior vena caval obstruction with prominent venous collaterals over the chest and abdomen were present. A chest CT scan showed a mass in the mediastinum, and three-dimensional CT demonstrated stenosis of the superior vena cava and development of collaterals. A bronchoscopic biopsy specimen showed lung cancer (adenocarcinoma). The patient has been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, and stenting, with some improvement of symptoms.