Hypoplasia of the inferior vena cava with hypertrophic azygos/hemiazygos and collateral venous circles of the abdomen: a case report

Abstract

Hypoplasia of the inferior vena cava is a rare congenital vascular defect with various forms; thus, identifying a specific anatomical variant in the literature is challenging. In some cases, the inferior vena cava may also be interrupted. Herein, we present a unique case of of an unknown subrenal hypoplasia of the inferior vena cava with azygos and hemiazygos hypertrophy and the creation of several collateral circles, particularly in the anterior wall of the abdomen, in an asymptomatic 75 year old man. This report not only describes this unusual instance but also quickly demonstrates the variations of the venous system in the abdomen, particularly on the right side, and the inferior vena cava and the azygos system, and explains the significance of imaging in recognizing vascular anomalies. The case was explored using a multiphase computed tomography technique, which correctly identified this complex vascular anomaly. The patient had never experienced symptoms associated with the same vascular defect previously. Moreover, his symptoms did not appear to be related; therefore, a periodic follow up was recommended.

Keywords

hypertrophic azygos / inferior vena cava / inferior vena cava hypoplasia / collateral venous circles / venous system

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