Inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis is the presence of thrombus within the IVC, which can arise from extension of deep vein thrombosis, tumor invasion (notably renal cell carcinoma), IVC filter thrombosis, or primary IVC thrombosis associated with hypercoagulable states. Ultrasound demonstrates the IVC as distended with echogenic or anechoic intraluminal material, absent flow on color Doppler, and loss of respiratory phasicity. Tumor thrombus can be distinguished from bland thrombus by internal vascularity on power Doppler. IVC thrombosis can lead to bilateral leg edema, venous hypertension, pulmonary embolism, and Budd-Chiari syndrome (when hepatic veins are involved). IVC filter surveillance ultrasound monitors filter position, tilt, and thrombus accumulation.
Associated Anatomy: Inferior Vena Cava
Signs & Symptoms: Bilateral leg swelling, abdominal pain, pulmonary embolism symptoms, ascites (if hepatic vein involvement)
ICD-10: I82.220