Azygous Continuation of the Inferior Vena Cava: Potential Misdiagnosis as Liver Cirrhosis
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava (ACIVC) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by the absence of the intrahepatic segment of the inferior vena cava. Although typically benign and incidental, it can mimic other pathologies on imaging. We present a case of ACIVC in a 37-year-old man, initially misdiagnosed as portal hypertension with mediastinal varices and possible liver cirrhosis, with the diagnosis ultimately confirmed by CT angiography demonstrating ACIVC. This report highlights the diagnostic challenges of ACIVC and underscores the importance of correlating imaging findings with the clinical picture for accurate diagnosis.
Source: ACG Case Reports Journal
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7127930028