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Chronic upper extremity (UE) occlusive disease and superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) can be debilitating to the patient. Chronic UE venous occlusion is more often because of a benign lesion, whereas SVCS is more likely the result of malignant obstruction. Endovascular treatment with percutaneously placed intravascular stents is increasingly being used to provide relief of symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flushing phenomenon may represent a physiologic or a pathologic reaction. Although flushing is usually benign, it is prudent that the physician remains aware of potentially life-threatening conditions associated with cutaneous flushing. A thorough investigation should be performed if the flushing is atypical or not clearly associated with a benign underlying process. The diagnosis often relies on a pertinent history, review of systems, physical examination, and various laboratory and imaging modalities, all of which are discussed in the 2 articles in this continuing medical education series. This article reviews flushing associated with fever, hyperthermia, emotions, menopause, medications, alcohol, food, hypersensitivity reactions, rosacea, hyperthyroidism, dumping syndrome, superior vena cava syndrome, and neurologic etiologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumors of the mediastinum are rare in pediatrics but may present in dramatic fashion. Respiratory symptoms such as cough, stridor, and wheezing are present in more than 60% of patients on presentation. A small but significant subset of patients will present with respiratory failure, superior vena cava syndrome, or other immediately life-threatening complaints. Greater than 50% of these masses are malignant, but even nonmalignant tumors can obstruct vital structures and present in a critical fashion. This review seeks to explain the most common mediastinal tumors in childhood and presents a reasonable algorithm for initial workup and treatment by the primary care or emergency department physician. To optimize outcome, these children are best served by a tertiary hospital where the availability of pediatric medical and surgical subspecialists and potential life-saving interventions are possible. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We report a rare case of invasive lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum presenting as superior vena cava syndrome requiring surgical resection. Lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum is a common incidental finding and is thought to be a relatively benign condition. Classically, its appearance on cardiac computed tomography is primarily fatty with low attenuation, sharp margins and minimal enhancement, involving the interatrial septum with relative sparing of the fossa ovalis. In masses of unclear etiology or in rare, extensive cases resulting in cavity obstruction, such as ours, cardiac computed tomography provides complementary information to define tumor extent and characterize classic mass features facilitating diagnosis and management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]