Inferior vena caval and right atrial thrombosis

Case contributed by J. Ray Ballinger

Presentation

Presents with shortness of breath for one week. Known retroperitoneal sarcoma.

Patient Data

Age: 60 years
Gender: Female

Note: This case has been tagged as "legacy" as it no longer meets image preparation and/or other case publication guidelines.

Contrast-enhanced CT images at the level of the diaphragm and above show a filling defect in the inferior vena cava and right atrium of the heart.

Case Discussion

Thrombophlebitis is a common complication among patients with malignancies due to altered coagulation. About 5-15% of patients with lower extremity thrombophlebitis develop IVC thrombosis as well. Limited information and follow up of this case prevents us from distinguishing between thrombosis of the IVC with extension into the right atrium and tumor extension into the IVC. Common tumors that extend into the IVC include renal cell carcinoma, adrenal neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, and sarcomas which may arise directly from the wall of the IVC e.g. leiomyosarcoma.

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