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Recurrent transient superior vena cava-like syndrome possibly associated with megestrol acetate
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, West Virginia, USA.
Background:
Superior vena cava syndrome is a rare, life-threatening clinical entity associated with occlusion of venous outflow from the head, neck, and upper extremities; this syndrome produces facial edema, cyanosis, dyspnea, and prominent neck veins, and is usually caused by intrathoracic neoplasms.
Case:
In this unusual case, a patient receiving megestrol acetate for stage IV endometrial carcinoma developed recurrent transient superior vena cava-like syndrome in the absence of venous obstruction.
Conclusion:
Superior vena cava-like syndrome may occur with megestrol acetate. This unusual complication should be considered in patients receiving this medication who present with symptomatology similar to that of superior vena cava syndrome.