What is the most common cause of superior vena cava syndrome?

What is the most common cause of superior vena cava syndrome?

• A. Masses, 90% lung cancer
• B. Bacterial infection
• C. Aortic dissection
• D. Pulmonary embolism

Answer: (A)

Obstruction of the superior vena cava is most often caused by a mediastinal mass compressing the vessel or by intraluminal thrombosis from malignancy. In adults, malignant tumors account for the vast majority of cases, with lung cancer being the leading single cause. Centrally located bronchogenic carcinomas, especially small cell and squamous cell types, are the classic culprits, though lymphomas and other mediastinal tumors can also produce SVC syndrome. Nonmalignant causes exist but are far less common. This explains why a mass from lung cancer is the best answer.

Obstruction of the superior vena cava is most often caused by a mediastinal mass compressing the vessel or by intraluminal thrombosis from malignancy. In adults, malignant tumors account for the vast majority of cases, with lung cancer being the leading single cause. Centrally located bronchogenic carcinomas, especially small cell and squamous cell types, are the classic culprits, though lymphomas and other mediastinal tumors can also produce SVC syndrome. Nonmalignant causes exist but are far less common. This explains why a mass from lung cancer is the best answer.