Superior vena cava syndrome.

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is a well-recognized manifestation of obstruction of the superior vena cava. It is clinically striking but rarely requires emergency treatment. Nowadays SVCS is most commonly due to external compression by malignancy or intrinsic thrombus due to an indwelling catheter. A tissue diagnosis is needed to guide diagnosis and treatment. An aggressive multimodality approach to investigation, support and treatment is indicated. Radiotherapy and intravascular stents are effective methods of achieving immediate symptom relief. The presence of SVCS does not reduce the probability of cure of the underlying malignancy and should not compromise the choice of appropriate treatment. A significant proportion (10-20%) survives over 2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]