Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava

Abstract

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a common cardiac anomaly associated with congenital heart diseases. A diagnosis of PLSVC usually warrants a detailed fetal echocardiography. Lesser known associations are the extra cardiac anomalies notably the upper airway and the gastrointestinal tract anomalies. We highlight here the importance of detailed fetal assessment for extra cardiac anomalies in addition to fetal echocardiography in fetuses diagnosed with PLSVC. We hereby present a preterm infant who presented with a triad of PLSVC, laryngeal atresia, and esophageal atresia.

Prenatal Diagnosis and Postnatal Outcomes of Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava Associated With Mild Narrow Aorta

“…Supplemental material online at jultrasoundmed.org cardinal vein to develop, resulting in the presence of bilateral superior vena cava (SVC). 5 At 7th week of embryonic development, the proximal left superior vena cava gradually deforms with the development of left brachiocephalic vein (innominate vein), leaving a fibrous ligament (the Marshall ligament). The PLSVC is therefore caused by the abnormal degeneration of the left anterior main vein, which begins at the confluence of the left jugular vein and the left subclavian vein, and runs in front of the aortic arch and the left pulmonary artery, as well as the lateral margin of the left atrium.…”

“…Although the basis of the PLSVC has not been entirely elucidated yet, it is thought to be the result of in utero failure of the left cardinal vein to develop, resulting in the presence of bilateral superior vena cava (SVC) 5 . At 7th week of embryonic development, the proximal left superior vena cava gradually deforms with the development of left brachiocephalic vein (innominate vein), leaving a fibrous ligament (the Marshall ligament).…”