Abstract
In 2002, A 60-year-old woman with right breast cancer was treated with preoperative chemotherapy, followed by right breast mastectomy (Bt+Ax). In 2005, a central venous port was implanted via the left subclavian vein for treatment of bone metastasis. However the port had to be removed due to a port-related infection.
In June 2008, a second device was implanted in the left upper arm. In May 2009, the patient complained of neck pain and swelling. CT scan and color doppler ultrasound revealed a left internal jugular vein thrombus. The patient was treated with continuous intravenous infusion of heparin for 4 days to prevent pulmonary embolism before removal of the port. Then, oral anticoagulation was begun.
In our 276 cases managed between January 2007 and June 2009, central venous port-related venous thrombosis occurred in 6 (2.1%). Venous thrombosis should be considered, after implantation of a central venous port, especially in cancer patients receiving systemic chemotherapy. CT scan and ultrasonography are useful examinations for detecting central venous port-related venous thrombosis.
