Jugular vein thrombosis

Abstract

Jugular vein thrombosis (JVT) is a not uncommon and serious finding encountered by radiologists. While identifying thrombus within the internal jugular vein (IJV) is usually not a diagnostic dilemma, a thorough evaluation of the surrounding structures is critical due to the sundry etiologies, potentially devastating complications (including pulmonary embolism, septic emboli, and dural sinus thrombosis), and high association with neoplasm. In this chapter, we discuss the typical anatomy of the IJV and the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and potential etiologies of JVT (including iatrogenic, neoplastic, infectious, traumatic, hematologic, rheumatologic, gynecologic, endocrine, and idiopathic causes, as well as pediatric-specific considerations). Multimodality imaging findings of JVT (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and angiography) and the diagnostic pitfalls are also reviewed, utilizing an image-rich, comprehensive review of the medical literature.