[Superior vena cava compression syndrome]

The superior vena cava syndrome that causes difficulties on venous return to the heart is a uncommon clinical entity and actually, more than 90% of the cases are secondary to a malignant intrathoracic process, rather than the intrinsic diseases of the aorta that is a rare etiology of the compression. The present report documents an aortic ascending atherosclerotic aneurysm that developed a superior vena cava compression syndrome. The literature was reviewed, stressing some important aspects about the etiology, physiopathology, diagnostic procedures, prognostic and treatment of this syndrome.