Basic and Clinical Sciences (BCSE) Practice Exam

The presence of a prominent venous pattern on the chest is a critical initial clinical sign that may indicate the presence of superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome. SVC syndrome occurs when there is obstruction of blood flow through the superior vena cava, which can be caused by various conditions such as tumors, thrombosis, or other mass effects.

When the SVC is compressed or obstructed, blood cannot flow back to the heart effectively from the head, neck, and upper limbs, leading to the engorgement of veins in those regions. This engorgement gives rise to a noticeable and prominent venous pattern across the chest, as the veins become distended and more visible due to the increased pressure and volume of blood trying to return to the heart.

While other signs and symptoms such as increased heart rate, unexplained weight gain, or coughing fits can accompany SVC syndrome, they are less specific and not as directly indicative of the condition itself. The striking visual sign of altered venous return is a key indicator that clinicians look for when suspecting SVC syndrome.