CT Scan Results for Iliac Vein Compression Syndrome - Cardiology

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Is the result of the pelvic CT scan indicative of iliac vein compression?


Hello Doctor: I have pain in my left leg, while my right leg does not hurt.
I consulted a vascular surgeon who initially examined my leg and noted that it was not swollen, but there was 1-2 grade varicose veins.
The doctor diagnosed it as iliac vein compression syndrome and arranged for a CT scan (with and without contrast).
I underwent a CT scan with contrast at the hospital (two scans, one without contrast and one with contrast).
The medical staff mentioned that the report would be available in about 7 working days, excluding weekends.
I developed some rashes on my skin the day after the scan.
I had the CT scan on Thursday, and the report came out on Sunday (about 4 days later).
The English report from the CT scan is as follows:
Summary: S pain and tension over LLL for a period of time.
Hx of ACL injury of bilateral knees and HIVD.
Allergic to some unknown anti-cold medication in childhood.
O engorged veins, LSS, BLL.
No pitting edema.
A R/O iliac vein compression with pelvic congestion.
P Arrange CTV.
Other treatment options such as elastic stockings pending effectiveness.
Imaging findings: CT for lower limbs with and without contrast show:
- A 2.8 cm left ovarian cyst.
- Uterine myoma, size about 2.5 cm.
- No evident venous thrombosis.
- No evident abnormal enlarged lymph nodes.
- Good patency of main trunk arteries at bilateral lower limbs.
IMPRESSION:
1.
A 2.8 cm left ovarian cyst.
2.
Uterine myoma, size about 2.5 cm.
3.
No evident DVT.
No obvious iliac vein compression.
I asked an AI chatbot for a translation, and the results were roughly as follows:
Summary: S pain and tension over the left lower limb (LLL) for a period of time.
Hx of bilateral knee ACL injury and HIVD.
Allergic to some unknown anti-cold medication in childhood.
O engorged veins, lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), and low hemoglobin levels (BLL).
No pitting edema.
A R/O iliac vein compression and pelvic congestion.
P Arrange for CT venography (CTV).
Other treatment options such as elastic stockings pending effectiveness.
Imaging findings: CT of the lower limbs with and without contrast shows:
- A 2.8 cm left ovarian cyst.
- Uterine myoma, size about 2.5 cm.
- No evident venous thrombosis.
- No evident abnormal enlarged lymph nodes.
- Good patency of main trunk arteries at bilateral lower limbs.
IMPRESSION:
1.
A 2.8 cm left ovarian cyst.
2.
Uterine myoma, size about 2.5 cm.
3.
No evident deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
No obvious iliac vein compression.
I would like to ask:
1.
Is this CT scan report translation completely accurate?
2.
Is the lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) mentioned in this report a result observed from the CT scan, or is it just an assessment made by the physician when ordering the test?
3.
Is the low hemoglobin level (BLL) mentioned in this report a result observed from the CT scan, or is it just an assessment made by the physician when ordering the test?
4.
Can we confirm from this CT scan report whether the patient has iliac vein compression syndrome?
5.
If the information is insufficient, what additional tests are needed to confirm whether the patient has iliac vein compression syndrome? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/21

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology


Hello: The CT scan results primarily indicate a left ovarian cyst and uterine fibroids, confirming that there is no evidence of iliac vein compression syndrome.
LSS and BLL may describe symptoms of varicose veins (the specific abbreviations used by the physician are unclear), rather than spinal stenosis or anemia.
It is still recommended to consult with your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate advice and treatment based on your symptoms and examination results.

Reply Date: 2023/05/21

More Info


Understanding the results of a CT scan, particularly in the context of iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS), requires careful consideration of the imaging findings and the clinical history of the patient. Based on the CT report you provided, let's break down the key aspects and address your questions.


Summary of the CT Scan Findings
1. Imaging Results: The CT scan revealed a 2.8 cm left ovarian cyst and a uterine myoma measuring about 2.5 cm. Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or obvious iliac vein compression. The report also noted good patency of the main trunk arteries in both lower limbs.

2. Clinical Context: You mentioned experiencing pain in your left leg, which prompted the investigation for IVCS. The initial assessment by your physician indicated the presence of varicose veins and suggested the possibility of IVCS.


Addressing Your Questions
1. Translation Accuracy: The translation of the CT report appears to be accurate in conveying the essential findings. It correctly summarizes the key points regarding the ovarian cyst, uterine myoma, and the absence of DVT and iliac vein compression.

2. LSS (Lumbar Spinal Stenosis) Mentioned in the Report: The mention of LSS in the report is likely a clinical note rather than a finding from the CT scan itself. The CT scan primarily focused on the lower limbs and pelvic region, and unless specifically stated, it does not typically assess spinal structures in detail unless that was the intention of the scan.

3. BLL (Low Hemoglobin Level): Similar to LSS, the reference to BLL is likely a clinical consideration rather than a direct finding from the CT scan. The CT scan does not measure hemoglobin levels; this would typically be assessed through blood tests.

4. Diagnosis of Iliac Vein Compression Syndrome: The CT scan results indicate that there is no obvious iliac vein compression. This suggests that IVCS is unlikely based on the imaging findings. However, clinical correlation is essential, as symptoms can sometimes persist despite negative imaging results.

5. Further Investigations: If there is still a suspicion of IVCS despite the CT findings, additional tests may be warranted. These could include:
- CT Venography (CTV): This specialized imaging can provide a more detailed view of the venous structures and help identify subtle compressions that may not be evident on standard CT scans.

- Ultrasound: A Doppler ultrasound can assess blood flow in the veins and may help identify any abnormalities in venous return or compression.

- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): In some cases, an MRI may be useful to evaluate the pelvic structures and surrounding tissues for any compressive lesions.


Conclusion
In summary, your CT scan results do not indicate iliac vein compression syndrome, and the findings of an ovarian cyst and uterine myoma are noted. However, it is crucial to discuss these results with your physician, who can interpret them in the context of your symptoms and clinical history. If symptoms persist, further investigations may be necessary to rule out IVCS or other underlying conditions. Always ensure that you have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your concerns and the next steps in your management plan.

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