Spontaneous superior vena cava thrombosis diagnosed in a 67-year-old male patient with shortness of breath and normal serum D-dimer concentration

Abstract

Introduction: Dyspnoea and fatigue are common symptoms present in a wide range of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. The course of diagnostics usually includes venous thromboembolism suspicion. D-dimer serum concentration measurement is sometimes thought to be disqualifying for thromboembolic event. However, it should be noted that sometimes venous thromboembolism exists despite low D-dimer concentration. Material and methods: The purpose of this paper was to present a case report of a 67-year-old male patient with superior vena cava thrombosis with slight clinical symptoms and normal D-dimer serum concentration. Results: A 67-year-old male patient was admitted to the Clinic as a matter of elective diagnostic of shortness of breath. In the course of routine diagnostics, the superior vena cava thrombosis was diagnosed. Conclusions: Venous thromboembolism (in this case superior vena cava thrombosis) may occur despite the normal level of D-dimer serum concentration. It should be noted that in the case of such a diagnosis also increased oncological invigilance is needed.