Introduction
Superior Vena Cava Syndrome (SVCS) refers to signs and symptoms
resulting from compression, obstruction or thrombosis of the superior
vena cava. The term Superior Mediastinal Syndrome (SMS) is used when
tracheal compression also occurs, but the terms are interchangeably used
due to coexistence of the two entities. It is known to occur with
non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin Lymphoma, and T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic
Lymphoma(T-ALL) (1). SVCS is a known oncological emergency and can be
life-threatening if there is a delay in the initiation of appropriate
management. Symptoms include cough, dyspnea, dysphagia, and swelling or
discoloration of the neck, face, and upper extremities. Distension of
the superficial veins in the chest wall can cause the development of
collateral neck veins (2). SVCS is a clinical diagnosis, although plain
radiography, computed tomography (CT) of the chest ,and venography may
be used for confirmation (3). There is not much published literature
highlighting the clinical course and outcomes of T-ALL/T-cell
Lymphoblastic Lymphoma (T-LBL) patients who present with SVCS. We
describe here the course, critical care needs, and outcomes of this
cohort managed at our center.