Superior vena cava syndrome

Overview 
Theory 
Diagnosis 
Management 
Follow up 
Resources 

Prognosis usually depends on the underlying aetiology, with poorer prognosis for malignant conditions.

Malignant aetiology

In patients with treatment-responsive malignancies, superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome does not necessarily signify adverse outcomes. However, in patients with non-small cell lung cancer resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, development of SVC syndrome is associated with poor prognosis and median survival of <6 months.[33]

Benign aetiology

Patients treated for benign causes with stenting or surgery have patency rates of around 90%, though there may be a need for recurrent stenting in some cases. Following percutaneous stenting, patients may need to be on antiplatelet therapy or warfarin for 1 to 3 months, although there are no clear guidelines regarding the duration of treatment.[22]

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer