ANEURYSM OF THE RIGHT SUBCLAVIAN ARTERY: AN UNUSUAL CAUSE OF SUPERIOR VENA CAVAL OBSTRUCTION

A case of superior vena caval (SVC) obstruction caused by an aneurysm of the right subclavian artery is presented. Malignant conditions are the commonest aetiological factors in SVC obstruction, but benign and potentially treatable lesions account for an important minority. The importance of attempting to establish a fully documented diagnosis, including histological proof, in all patients presenting with this syndrome is emphasized.