Combined Aneurysm and Infrahepatic Stenosis of the Inferior Vena Cava

Abstract

Aneurysms of the major veins are rare, and those involving the inferior vena cava (IVC) are extremely rare. The etiology of IVC aneurysms remains unknown, and they can have variable presentation. Although many aneurysms are found incidentally, others are diagnosed after complications develop. Thrombosis is a frequent presentation, and serious sequelae, such as lethal pulmonary embolism and Budd-Chiari syndrome, may result. Therapeutic alternatives range from watchful waiting to surgical management. Development of complications such as rupture has been described and may require surgery. In this article, we report the discovery of an IVC aneurysm in a patient who had chronic renal failure associated with renal hypoperfusion and severe cardiac insufficiency.