Superior vena cava syndrome history and symptoms: Difference between revisions
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==Symptoms== | ==Symptoms== | ||
SVCS usually presents more gradually with an increase in symptoms over time as malignancies increase in size.<ref name="emedicine">{{cite web | last = Beeson | first = Michael S | title = Superior Vena Cava Syndrome | url=http://www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic561.htm | accessdate = 2008-03-24 }}</ref> Symptoms occur when obstruction of venous | SVCS usually presents more gradually with an increase in symptoms over time as malignancies increase in size.<ref name="emedicine">{{cite web | last = Beeson | first = Michael S | title = Superior Vena Cava Syndrome | url=http://www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic561.htm | accessdate = 2008-03-24 }}</ref> Symptoms occur when obstruction of venous blood flow back to the heart is compromised. Symptoms may begin suddenly or gradually, and may worsen with posture change. Symptoms are quite varied among benign and malignant SVCS. They can be ranging from sub-clinical presentation to death. SVCS is a [[oncological emergency]] which if untreated never resolves on its own. | ||
==Common symptoms== | ==Common symptoms== | ||
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Maria Fernanda Villarreal, M.D. [2]
Overview
The hallmark of superior vena cava syndrome is elevated jugular pressure and dyspnea. A positive history of cancer and intra-vascular devices are suggestive of superior vena cava syndrome. The most common symptoms of superior vena cava syndrome include upper body swelling, dyspnea, and cough.[1]
History
Obtaining the history is the most important aspect of making a diagnosis of SVCS. It provides insight into cause, possible recurrence and associated comorbid conditions. Complete history will help determine the correct therapy and helps in determining the prognosis. Specific histories about the symptoms (duration, onset, progression), associated symptoms, and drug usage have to be obtained.[1] Specific areas of focus when obtaining the history, are outlined below:
- Onset, duration and progression of symptoms
- History of cancer
- History of infections
- Recent surgeries or interventions (eg. intravascular devices)
- Associated symptoms (lethargy, fever, confusion)
- Previous response to glucocorticoids
Symptoms
SVCS usually presents more gradually with an increase in symptoms over time as malignancies increase in size.[2] Symptoms occur when obstruction of venous blood flow back to the heart is compromised. Symptoms may begin suddenly or gradually, and may worsen with posture change. Symptoms are quite varied among benign and malignant SVCS. They can be ranging from sub-clinical presentation to death. SVCS is a oncological emergency which if untreated never resolves on its own.
Common symptoms
The most common symptoms include the following:[3]
Less common symptoms
Less common symptoms include the following:[3]
- Hoarseness
- Chest pain
- Problems swallowing and/or talking
- Coughing up blood
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Decreased alertness
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Sensation of head or ear "fullness"
- Vision changes
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Uberoi R (2006). "Quality assurance guidelines for superior vena cava stenting in malignant disease". Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol. 29 (3): 319–22. doi:10.1007/s00270-005-0284-9. PMID 16502166.
- ↑ Beeson, Michael S. "Superior Vena Cava Syndrome". Retrieved 2008-03-24.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Radiation Oncology/Palliation/SVC Syndrome. WikiBooks https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Radiation_Oncology/Palliation/SVC_Syndrome Accessed on January 13, 2016