Unilateral breast swelling as a complication of innominate vein stenosis in a hemodialysis patient.

A 53-year-old African-American female with end-stage renal disease presented with 3 months history of right breast swelling. The patient had a right internal jugular tunneled catheter for dialysis access. Physical examination was significant for right breast swelling, peau d'orange appearance, and mild tenderness on palpation. Mammogram was normal. A CT scan of the chest with contrast demonstrated chest wall edema and prominent superficial collateral veins suggesting central vein obstruction. Right upper extremity venogram revealed right innominate vein occlusion up to its junction with the subclavian vein. Angioplasty of occluded segment was attempted and was unsuccessful, but right breast swelling significantly improved following the procedure. Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and management of central vein stenosis is discussed.