Tuberculosis and Superior Vena Cava Obstruction

Abstract

Superior Vena Cava (SVC) obstruction is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by the blockage of the second largest vein in the human body, leading to various symptoms including swelling in the upper body, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Causes of SVC obstruction range from malignancies such as lymphoma and breast cancer to infectious diseases like tuberculosis, along with other factors like blood clots and constrictive pericarditis. Diagnosis typically involves clinical examination and imaging studies like MRI, CT, and venography. A proposed classification system categorizes symptoms into hemodynamic, respiratory, and neurological manifestations, aiding in treatment urgency determination. Management focuses on relieving the blockage and addressing the underlying cause, which may include antibiotics, anticoagulants, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. We present a case study of a 40-year-old male with neck pain and dizziness, ultimately diagnosed with sub-acute thrombosis of the internal jugular veins leading to SVC compression, potentially due to tuberculosis. This case underscores the importance of considering tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis, particularly in endemic regions, facilitating timely and appropriate treatment interventions.