A 50-year-old male with a 30-year history of smoking was diagnosed with bronchogenic cancer. He developed edema and venous distention in the upper extremities and face. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of edema and venous distention in the upper extremities and face are consistent with superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS). This is a medical emergency that occurs when the superior vena cava, a large vein that carries blood from the upper body to the heart, is partially or completely obstructed. In this case, the obstruction is likely due to the bronchogenic cancer compressing the vein. Thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis could also cause edema and venous distention, but they would typically be localized to one limb, whereas SVCS affects the upper body. Chronic venous insufficiency does not cause acute symptoms like edema and venous distention.

A 50-Year-Old Male with a 30-Year History of Smoking Was