Ascending aorta aneurysm as a cause of superior vena cava syndrome.

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is mostly presented in advanced stage of lung cancer. Similar symptoms may misdirect correct diagnosis, especially in nonmalignant cases of SVCS. In the fifties of the 20th century, mediastinitis caused by tuberculosis and syphilis were dominant causes of non-malignant SVCS. Currently, non-cancer causes of SVCS are responsible for 5% to 22% of all SVCS cases. In most cases inner obliteration of the vessel is a result of thrombosis at the site of endothelial injury caused by either intravascular devices (catheters, electrodes). Clinical signs are nonspecific particularly in acute course of syndrome. We present a case of a men with edema of the lower part of the head and neck, as a pseudo allergic acute reaction, where eventually diagnosis of acute superior vena cava syndrome due to ascending aorta aneurysm was established. Based on the case, review of nonmalignant causes of SVCS and treatment options are discussed.