[Vena cava occlusion-syndrom by leiomyosarcoma. Two case reports (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Mesenchymal tumors, specifically leiomyosarcoma, rarely affect the inferior vena cava.
• Inferior vena cava (IVC) occlusion by neoplasm is an uncommon presentation.

Observation:

• Two cases of IVC leiomyosarcoma causing vessel occlusion are presented.
• The tumor originated from the IVC wall, extending into the lumen, one case reaching the right atrium.
• Clinical manifestations included collateral circulation, anasarca edema, and varices.

Findings:

• The primary cause of mortality was right heart failure, not distant metastases.
• Diagnosis is often established post-mortem.
• Cavography can aid in differentiating IVC leiomyosarcoma from thrombosis.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis of IVC leiomyosarcoma is essential for potentially curative surgical intervention.
• Increased awareness of this rare entity is needed for timely diagnosis.
• Understanding the pathophysiology is key to managing associated complications like heart failure.