[ICD-associated superior vena cava syndrome]

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome is caused by obstruction of blood flow in the SVC resulting in swelling of the face, neck and upper extremities. Dyspnea and hoarseness are common. Distension of the veins in the neck and chest wall can be seen. The diagnosis is made by contrast-enhanced CT. The most common cause is malignancy. However, iatrogenic causes have increased due to an increasing number of central venous catheters and implantable cardiac devices. SVC syndrome is a rare but important differential diagnosis to angioedema. This case report presents a man with iatrogenic SVC syndrome who was misdiagnosed multiple times. To avoid misdiagnosis, increased knowledge of SVC syndrome, a readiness to reconsider the diagnosis and a thorough physical examination are important.