Pulmonary varix

Pulmonary vein varix (PVV), also sometimes termed a pulmonary venous aneurysm, refers to a localized aneurysmal dilatation of a pulmonary vein. As it involves a venous structure, the former term is usually considered more appropriate. They are rare and may be congenital or acquired.

Clinical presentation

It is usually asymptomatic.

Pathology

While they can occur anywhere in the chest, they are thought to typically occur at the confluences of the veins adjacent to the left atrium .

They are sometimes classified into three morphological types:

  • saccular type: considered most common
  • tortuous type
  • confluent type
Associations

Radiographic features

Plain radiograph

Non-specific and can present as a mass on a chest radiograph .

CTPA/contrast pulmonary angiography

Pulmonary angiography has been the mainstay of diagnosis . Allows accurate delineation of arterial and venous anatomy.

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