Imaging of inferior vena cava normal variants, anomalies and pathologies, Part 2: Acquired

Abstract

The inferior vena cava (IVC) is an uncommon site for primary pathologies and secondary involvement is also infrequent, but involvement  of the IVC can often drastically change management. It is therefore important to be cognizant of IVC pathologies. This review discussed  common and rare neoplastic and non-neoplastic pathologies of the IVC as well as pathology mimics. Primary and secondary neoplasms  can lead to tumour extension or bland thrombus formation and it is often important to distinguish between these two entities. It is also  important to be aware of pseudo-lesions for accurate diagnosis. Inferior vena cava filter placement and endovascular treatment of the  aorta are commonly performed procedures that can be associated with devastating complications, which are luckily infrequent. The  calibre of the IVC also has its own clinical significance. Inferior vena cava pathologies, although rare, have a dramatic impact on the  patient’s outcome and knowledge of these pathologies is prudent. Contribution: Understand the principles of IVC imaging, the common  as well as the rare primary and secondary IVC tumours, differentiate between tumour thrombus and bland thrombus, and recognise IVC  lesion mimics and life-threatening pathologies involving the IVC.