Upper extremity venous aneurysm as a source of pulmonary emboli

Ann Vasc Surg. 2013 Feb;27(2):240.e5-8. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2012.05.019.

Abstract

Spontaneous venous aneurysms of the upper extremities and neck are rare and typically asymptomatic. We present the first reported case of a symptomatic, primary upper extremity venous aneurysm in a patient who initially presented with pulmonary emboli. A 22-year-old patient was admitted with chest pain, dyspnea, and a right axillary mass. Computed tomography revealed diffuse, bilateral pulmonary emboli in addition to a thrombosed axillary vein. Venography confirmed the diagnosis, and also revealed a subclavian vein stenosis at the crossing of the first rib. Pharmacomechanical thrombolysis, catheter-directed thrombolysis, and venoplasty were performed with adequate flow restoration, also revealing the presence of a previously thrombosed proximal brachial/distal axillary venous aneurysm. Hematologic testing showed a positive and persistent lupus anticoagulant. The patient declined surgical reconstruction and opted for long-term anticoagulation. At 24 months, the patient continued to remain symptom-free.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aneurysm / complications*
  • Aneurysm / diagnosis
  • Aneurysm / therapy
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Axillary Vein* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mechanical Thrombolysis
  • Phlebography / methods
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnosis
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / therapy
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / complications
  • Thrombolytic Therapy
  • Thrombophilia / complications
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Upper Extremity / blood supply*
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnosis
  • Venous Thrombosis / etiology*
  • Venous Thrombosis / therapy
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anticoagulants