Obstructions of the superior vena cava. A review of the literature with two case reports

The clinical picture of obstruction of the superior vena cava is a symptom complex and not a specific disease entity. Many papers, case reports, and discussions of various aspects of obstruction of the superior vena cava have appeared in medical literature over a period of many years, but it is difficult to find a brief summary of well-established criteria for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. The purpose of this present paper is threefold: (1) to review the essential points of the literature since 1934; (2) to report two additional cases of obstruction of the superior vena cava, one of particular interest; and (3) to summarize in one place the major points of diagnosis and treatment as related to this unusual syndrome. © 1949