Unilateral Breast Edema as a Rare Manifestation of Brachiocephalic Vein Occlusion in a Hemodialysis Patient.
Ömer Burak Çelik, Abdülmelik Birgün, Mehmet Murat Şahin et al.
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Case in brief
A 58-year-old woman with end-stage kidney disease on hemodialysis presented with progressive unilateral left breast swelling, along with ipsilateral arm edema and facial congestion. After excluding other causes, duplex ultrasonography and venography revealed complete occlusion of the left brachiocephalic vein. Endovascular treatment with balloon angioplasty and stent implantation restored venous flow, leading to significant symptom improvement within one month.
What made this case unusual
Unilateral breast edema as a manifestation of brachiocephalic vein occlusion is rare and can mimic primary breast disorders, potentially delaying diagnosis.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider central venous obstruction in hemodialysis patients presenting with unilateral breast swelling to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure timely intervention.
Why it matters
Recognizing this atypical presentation can facilitate prompt treatment, improving patient outcomes and preserving vascular access.