An Unusual Cause of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Heart Lung Circ. 2016 Dec;25(12):e162-e164. doi: 10.1016/j.hlc.2016.06.1207. Epub 2016 Jul 26.

Abstract

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a condition arising from compression of the subclavian vessels and/or brachial plexus. Many factors or diseases may cause compression of the neurovascular bundle at the thoracic outlet. We describe the case of a 41-year-old woman with TOS who presented with vascular venous symptoms. Chest computed tomography (CT) scan showed a cystic mass at the level of cervico-thoracic junction, located between the left subclavian artery and vein, which appeared compressed. The cystic mass was removed through a cervical approach and it was found to be a cyst arising from the thoracic duct compressing and anteriorly dislocating the left subclavian vein. After surgery symptoms promptly disappeared.

Keywords: Surgery; Thoracic duct cyst; Thoracic outlet syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cysts* / complications
  • Cysts* / diagnostic imaging
  • Cysts* / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Subclavian Artery* / diagnostic imaging
  • Subclavian Artery* / surgery
  • Subclavian Vein* / diagnostic imaging
  • Subclavian Vein* / surgery
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / etiology
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*