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Superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO) or Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS), is usually the result of the direct obstruction of the superior vena cava by malignancies such as compression of the vessel wall by right upper lobe tumors or thymoma and/or medi... moreSuperior vena cava obstruction (SVCO) or Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS), is usually the result of the direct obstruction of the superior vena cava by malignancies such as compression of the vessel wall by right upper lobe tumors or thymoma and/or mediastinal lymphadenopathy. The most common malignancies that cause SVCS is bronchogenic carcinoma. Shortness of breath is the most common symptom, followed by face or arm swelling. Other symptoms are dyspnea, headache, facial edema, venous distension in the neck and distended veins in the upper chest and arms, upper limb edema, lightheadedness, cough,edema of the neck, called the collar of Stokes. Superior vena cava syndrome usually presents more gradually with an increase in symptoms over time as malignancies increase in size or invasiveness. Several methods of treatment are available, mainly consisting of careful drug therapy and surgery. less
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Chronic venous insufficiency generally results from changes secondary to deep thrombophlebitis. There is often history of leg trauma. It characterized first by progressive edema of the leg, and later by changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissues. The us... moreChronic venous insufficiency generally results from changes secondary to deep thrombophlebitis. There is often history of leg trauma. It characterized first by progressive edema of the leg, and later by changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissues. The usual symptoms are itching, a dull discomfort made worse by periods of standing, and pain if ulceration is present. Treatment include bed rest with legs elevated, avoidance of long periods of sitting or standing, and the use of special stocking. less
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Thrombophlebitis occurs when a blood clot causes swelling in one or more of the veins, typically in the legs. Rarely, thrombophlebitis (sometimes called phlebitis) can affect veins in the arms or neck. The affected vein may be near the surface of the skin... moreThrombophlebitis occurs when a blood clot causes swelling in one or more of the veins, typically in the legs. Rarely, thrombophlebitis (sometimes called phlebitis) can affect veins in the arms or neck. The affected vein may be near the surface of the skin, causing superficial thrombophlebitis, or deep within a muscle, causing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A clot in a deep vein increases your risk of serious health problems, including a dislodged clot (embolus) traveling to the lungs and blocking a pulmonary artery (pulmonary embolism). Thrombophlebitis can be caused by prolonged inactivity, such as sitting for a long time or lengthy bed rest. Self-care methods can ease pain and reduce the risk of clots. Various treatments, including medications and surgery, are available for thrombophlebitis. less
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Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and tortuous. The term commonly refers to the veins on the leg, although varicose veins can occur elsewhere. Varicose veins are most common in the superficial veins of the legs, which are subject to high ... moreVaricose veins are veins that have become enlarged and tortuous. The term commonly refers to the veins on the leg, although varicose veins can occur elsewhere. Varicose veins are most common in the superficial veins of the legs, which are subject to high pressure when standing. Besides cosmetic problems, varicose veins are often painful, especially when standing or walking. They often itch, and scratching them can cause ulcers. Serious complications are rare. Non-surgical treatments include sclerotherapy, elastic stockings, elevating the legs, and exercise. Newer, less invasive treatments which seal the main leaking vein on the thigh are available. less
