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Updated: Aug 15, 2025

Stenosis of the Inferior Vena Cava: A Murine Model of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: December 22, 2017
Inferior vena cava agenesis: a rare cause of deep vein thrombosis
Gareth John Williams1,2, Peter Chowdhury3, Stuart Packham4
1Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK garethw512@doctors.net.uk.
Insights
A rare case of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a young man was linked to a congenital absence of the inferior vena cava (IVC). This finding highlights the need for better understanding and management strategies for IVC agenesis and associated venous thromboembolism.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a significant clinical concern with numerous identified risk factors.
- Inferior vena cava (IVC) agenesis is an exceedingly rare congenital anomaly.
- The clinical implications and management of IVC agenesis remain poorly understood.
Abstract:
The development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is influenced by a myriad of risk factors which are seen across a wide spectrum of healthcare settings. We present a previously fit and well male in his early 40s with extensive bilateral lower limb DVT associated with total inferior vena cava (IVC) agenesis. The diagnosis was made with contrast-enhanced CT imaging of the abdomen and pelvis. With no demonstrable subhepatic IVC, the majority of the venous drainage was via large azygous veins and distended collateral vessels. Lifelong anticoagulation was advised by both haematology and vascular surgery teams. IVC agenesis represents a very rare and largely unknown clinical entity within the medical community with currently no firmly established pathogenesis, guideline for future VTE prophylaxis or standardised follow-up strategy.
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