Dilated azygos vein | Gamuts.net

Dilated azygos vein

The azygos vein is a vein running up the right side of the thoracic vertebral column draining itself towards the superior vena cava. It connects the systems of superior vena cava and inferior vena cava and can provide an alternative path for blood to the right atrium when either of the venae cavae is blocked. [Source: Wikipedia ]

Synonyms

Azygos vein dilatation

May Cause

Abnormal azygoesophageal recess

Displacement of the thoracic paraspinal line

Enhancing mediastinal mass

Middle mediastinal lesion

Retrocardiac lesion

Wide superior mediastinum in an infant or child

May Be Caused by

Common: Azygos continuation of inferior vena cava; Cardiac tamponade; Constrictive pericarditis; Expiration; Heart failure; Inferior vena cava obstruction; Overhydration; Pericardial effusion; Portal hypertension; Portal vein thrombosis; Pregnancy; Recumbency; Right heart failure; Splenic vein thrombosis; Superior vena cava syndrome; Tricuspid insufficiency
Uncommon: Arteriovenous malformation of thoracic wall; Idiopathic; Mechanical obstruction of tricuspid valve; Pulmonary sequestration; Right atrial myxoma; Total anomalous pulmonary venous return; Traumatic arteriovenous fistula of azygos vein; Traumatic azygos vein pseudoaneurysm; Tricuspid stenosis