superior vena cava syndrome

superior vena cava syndrome A condition in which the large vein that carries blood down to the heart (superior vena cava) is compressed. This compression may be caused by disease of any of the structures or lymph nodes surrounding this vein. Superior vena cava syndrome is characterized by swelling of the face, neck, and/or arms, with visible widening (dilation) of the veins of the neck. Patients often have a persistent cough and shortness of breath. Causes of superior vena cava syndrome include cancer and several benign conditions including infections, benign tumors, aortic aneurysm, pericarditis, sarcoidosis, irradiation treatment to the chest, air in the chest (pneumothorax), and complications of central line catheters and heart surgery. Diagnosis is made via observation of typical findings and is supported by identifying a cause for superior vena cava syndrome, which often requires X-ray imaging, computerized axial tomography (CAT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning. Treatment is directed toward the underlying cause. See also vena cava, superior.