Recurrent cerebral embolism associated with indwelling catheter in the presence of anomalous neck venous structures.
Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is the most common central venous anomaly in the thorax, which may remain asymptomatic throughout life. Indwelling catheters that are increasingly used in oncology practice may result in complications in the presence of PLSVC. The authors report an unusual case of recurrent ischemic attacks each time a portacath was accessed in a patient with breast cancer and PLSVC. This case highlights the importance of suspecting this condition in the presence of clinical and radiographic clues to prevent complications.
Dinasarapu
Chandrasekhar R
CR
Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center North Division, Bronx, New York 10466, USA.
Adiga
Giridhar U
GU
Malik
Sandeep
S
D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020766:Intracranial Embolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D014683:Vena Cava, Superior / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging