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Anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation

R I Weiner1, V Maranhao, H B Levin

  • 1Atlantic City Medical Center, NJ.

The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|July 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation is a rare finding in adults undergoing cardiac catheterization. This congenital anomaly, though common in pediatric heart disease, can be a diagnostic challenge for adult angiographers.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Radiology
  • Anatomy

Background:

  • Anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation is a rare congenital anomaly.
  • It is more frequently detected in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease.
  • This anomaly can present diagnostic challenges in adult imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the existence of anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation.
  • To inform angiographers working with adult patients about this anomaly.
  • To emphasize its association with other congenital cardiac abnormalities.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of cardiac catheterization cases.
  • Analysis of imaging findings across three institutions over six years.
  • Identification of five patients with anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation.

Main Results:

  • Five cases of anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation were identified.
  • The anomaly was found in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization.
  • The anomaly is often associated with other congenital cardiac defects.

Conclusions:

  • Anomalous inferior vena cava with azygos continuation is an uncommon but significant finding in adult cardiac catheterization.
  • Awareness of this anomaly is crucial for accurate diagnosis in adult cardiology.
  • Further investigation into associated cardiac abnormalities is warranted.

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