Spontaneous cervical haematoma resulting from intrathoracic pathology.
Spontaneous cervical haematomas are rare occurrences for which a wide variety of aetiologies have been reported. Although the pathogenesis of this condition can be quite diverse, all known cases have emanated from a cervical source. The authors report the first case of a spontaneous cervical haematoma arising from an intrathoracic source. A case review and Medline search from 1962-2003 was carried out. No prior experience with intrathoracic sources for cervical haematomas has previously been reported. Transcervical haematoma evacuation confirmed the intrathoracic origin and a median sternotomy was required to gain control of this haemorrhage. Thoracic sources should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a spontaneous cervical haematoma. Preparations for a combined procedure with a thoracic surgeon can be predicted pre-operatively based on imaging studies.
Department of Otorlaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. rdadelson@mac.com
Robert Todd
RT
Adelson
Andrew
A
Vories
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006406:Hematoma / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008323:Mammary Arteries / Q000601:surgery; D008382:Marfan Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D009333:Neck / Q000601:surgery; D009456:Neurofibromatosis 1 / Q000150:complications; D013249:Sternum / Q000601:surgery