What causes left-sided chest pain and headache?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My brother has been experiencing the following symptoms: rapid heartbeat, severe headaches, especially at night, pain on the left side of the chest, and occasional nausea. He underwent a CT (computed tomography) scan, and part of the results states: ‘A large filling defect is seen within the infrarenal inferior vena cava with no opacification of the vessel. The vessel is enlarged, measuring approximately 25 mm in diameter. The visualized osseous structures and lung bases are unremarkable.'
What do these results mean?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
The findings suggested by his CT (computed tomography) scan report are consistent with inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis. Assessing the clotting and fibrinolytic systems is required. The necessary investigations include protein C, protein S, antithrombin III, and anticardiolipin studies. The goals of treatment are to manage the primary effects of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the potential impact of embolization. Medical management may include anticoagulation therapy and thrombolytic agents. He definitely needs further investigations and workup.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
What tests do you recommend to assess the clotting and fibrinolytic systems? A local cardiologist has suggested a CT venogram. This test is expensive, so I am wondering if it is really necessary.
- Is this a common or rare condition?
- Is it fully treatable, perhaps with medication or surgery?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Yes, a CT venogram is required to confirm the diagnosis. However, it is not a highly sensitive test. The tests I mentioned are useful for diagnosing the underlying cause of thrombosis. It is very important to understand that we need to identify the cause in order to treat the condition. Prognosis depends on the severity of the disease.
Thanks and regards.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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