Focal hepatic hot spot sign (SVC obstruction)

Case contributed by Sachi Hapugoda
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Suspected pulmonary embolism with chest pain and dyspnea. History of long term central catheterization for haemodialysis and venous stents.

Patient Data

Age: 35 years

No pulmonary embolism. Stenting spans the left jugular brachiocephalic vein and SVC which are all occluded. Features of collateralisation with contrast in the intercostal and azygos venous system, and in the IVC and its tributaries. Incidental parafalciform enhancement demonstrated in the liver (focal hot spot sign) consistent with the known SVC obstruction.

Case Discussion

Demonstration of a focal hepatic hot spot sign due to SVC obstruction in the setting of previous long term central catheterization for haemodialysis.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.