Recurrent transient superior vena cava-like syndrome possibly associated with megestrol acetate.
BACKGROUND
Superior vena cava syndrome is a rare, life-threatening clinical entity associated with occlusion of venous outflow from the head, neck, and upper extremities; this syndrome produces facial edema, cyanosis, dyspnea, and prominent neck veins, and is usually caused by intrathoracic neoplasms.


METHODS
In this unusual case, a patient receiving megestrol acetate for stage IV endometrial carcinoma developed recurrent transient superior vena cava-like syndrome in the absence of venous obstruction.


CONCLUSIONS
Superior vena cava-like syndrome may occur with megestrol acetate. This unusual complication should be considered in patients receiving this medication who present with symptomatology similar to that of superior vena cava syndrome.
Abulafia
O
O
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, West Virginia, USA.
Sherer
D M
DM
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D000368:Aged; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000008:administration & dosage; D016889:Endometrial Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy; D008535:Megestrol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D010052:Ovariectomy; D012008:Recurrence; D013479:Superior Vena Cava Syndrome / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis
D008535:Megestrol