Superior vena cava syndrome physical examination

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Physical examination findings include swelling and redness of the face, bluish coloration to the skin over time, visibly distended veins, drooping of the eyelid, and swelling around the eye.

Physical Examination

Appearance of the Patient

• 
  Distension of veins on the torso of a patient with SVC syndrome

• Pemberton's sign: Development of suffusion, plethora, or duskiness upon elevation of the arms above the head in patients with SVC syndrome.

Skin

• Reddish mucus membranes (inside the nose, mouth, and other places)
• Redness changing to blueness later
• Bluish color to the skin
• Distension of veins in the chest or neck

Head

• Swelling of the face
• Reddish face or cheeks

Eyes

• Drooping eyelid
• Swelling around the eye
• Swelling of the whites of the eyes

Extremities

• Reddish palms