Incidental discovery of an inferior vena cava aneurysm

Abstract

Inferior vena cava (IVC) aneurysms are extremely rare, with only 18 reported cases in the world literature. These aneurysms are categorized as acquired, congenital, or associated with arteriovenous fistulae. Thrombosis of an IVC aneurysm can lead to IVC syndrome characterized by massive lower extremity edema, pulmonary embolism, or even death. Therapeutic alternatives range from watchful waiting to operative resection. This report presents a case of an IVC aneurysm noted incidentally at the time of diagnostic computed tomography for the evaluation of blunt chest trauma following a motor vehicle collision. In addition, the classification, embryology, diagnosis, and management of this unusual clinical entity are reviewed.