Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Associated with Left Subclavian Thrombosis Secondary to Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma: A Case Report

Abstract

Superior vena cava syndrome results from obstruction of the venous flow or the return of the superior vena cava. Increased venous pressure in the upper body causes edema of the face, neck, and upper extremities occasionally accompanied by vessel distension, cyanosis, cough, dyspnea, stridor, and dysphagia. Cerebral edema causes headaches, confusion, coma, and even death. Lung cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the most frequent malignant causes (85%) of superior vena cava syndrome, and thyroid cancer is a rare cause (< 5%).