Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Modified Radical Neck Dissection for Cervical Metastasis
Published on: February 20, 2026
Posttraumatic internal jugular vein thrombosis presenting as a painful neck mass in a child
Maria Gallanos1, John W Hafner
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center, Mattoon, IL, USA.
Insights
A pediatric case of traumatic internal jugular vein thrombosis (IJVT) in a 7-year-old boy is presented. Prompt diagnosis and treatment led to full symptom resolution without complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Internal jugular vein thrombosis (IJVT) is a rare but serious condition.
- Traumatic IJVT is particularly uncommon in pediatric patients.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent severe complications.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old boy presented with severe neck pain after a fall.
- Initial diagnosis was lymphadenitis with possible abscess.
- Imaging revealed occlusive left internal jugular vein thrombosis.
Findings:
- Contrast-enhanced CT and Doppler ultrasound confirmed internal jugular vein thrombosis.
- The patient received intravenous antibiotics and close monitoring.
- Complete resolution of symptoms was achieved within one year.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering IJVT in pediatric neck swelling, even after trauma.
- A systematic diagnostic approach is essential for accurate and timely diagnosis.
- Early recognition and management of traumatic IJVT can lead to favorable outcomes.
Abstract:
An uncommon case of a pediatric traumatic internal jugular vein thrombosis is presented. A 7-year-old boy developed severe neck pain after falling from a bunk bed. Initially, the child was diagnosed and treated for a lymphadenitis with a possible abscess formation. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography and Doppler ultrasound imaging of the neck revealed the presence of an occlusive thrombosis of the left internal jugular vein. The patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics and followed closely over the next year. He had full resolution of his symptoms without the development of complications associated with this injury process. Internal jugular vein thrombosis is an uncommon and potentially life-threatening disorder caused by various conditions. This case illustrates the need for a systematic approach when evaluating neck masses, and internal jugular venous thrombosis should be included in the differential of anterior neck swelling.
Related Concept Videos
Veins of Head and Neck
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
Arteries of the Head and Neck
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Muscles of the Anterior Neck
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction