Gene/Protein Disease Symptom Drug Enzyme Compound
Pivot Concepts:   Target Concepts:
Query: UMLS:C0016382 (flushing)
 6,387 document(s) hit in 31,850,051 MEDLINE articles (0.00 seconds)

The symptoms that result from compression of the superior vena cava are known as superior vena cava syndrome. The syndrome was originally described as secondary to infection such as tuberculosis or syphilitic aortic aneurysm. Currently, the origin is generally cancer or thrombotic events. Adenocarcinoma of the lung is the most common cause. Thrombotic causes are increasing because of the rise in use of pacemakers and central venous catheters for access or treatment purposes. Symptoms may include a feeling of fullness in the head, dyspnea, and cough. Clinical findings may include facial and neck swelling; dilated venous channels over the trunk, upper extremities, and neck; facial flushing; cyanosis; respiratory stridor and distress; and neurologic signs. Primary symptoms are in the neck and head. Treatment of superior vena cava syndrome will depend on the cause of the compression. If thrombosis is found, thrombolysis and anticoagulation may be indicated. With carcinoma or infection, specific drugs or radiation may be used. In cases of compression, dilation and stenting of the superior vena cava may be performed. In some cases a bypass of the superior vena cava may be indicated.
 ...
PMID:Superior vena cava syndrome. 1732 62

The flushing phenomenon may represent a physiologic or a pathologic reaction. Although flushing is usually benign, it is prudent that the physician remains aware of potentially life-threatening conditions associated with cutaneous flushing. A thorough investigation should be performed if the flushing is atypical or not clearly associated with a benign underlying process. The diagnosis often relies on a pertinent history, review of systems, physical examination, and various laboratory and imaging modalities, all of which are discussed in the 2 articles in this continuing medical education series. This article reviews flushing associated with fever, hyperthermia, emotions, menopause, medications, alcohol, food, hypersensitivity reactions, rosacea, hyperthyroidism, dumping syndrome, superior vena cava syndrome, and neurologic etiologies.
 ...
PMID:Etiologies and management of cutaneous flushing: Nonmalignant causes. 2967 87

Infection remains a significant problem for patients with cardiac-implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) but can be difficult to diagnose. We describe an unusual presentation of CIED infection in a patient with abandoned pacemaker leads. A 27-year-old male presented with facial flushing on upper but not lower limb exertion due to superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction, as well as pleuritic chest pain due to septic emboli. This was successfully treated with antibiotics and complete endovascular extraction of the pacemaker leads. Upper limb exertional facial flushing may be a useful clinical sign for the diagnosis of SVC obstruction. This case report also describes a rare presentation of CIED infection.
 ...
PMID:Facial flushing on upper limb exertion: a rare presentation of superior vena cava obstruction. 2979 77