Recurrent transient superior vena cava-like syndrome possibly associated with megestrol acetate.

Abstract

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. 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. 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.