Intrathoracic goitre: A cause of the superior vena cava syndrome

Benign lesions of the mediastinum rarely produce obstruction of the innominate vessels. Two patients with intrathoracic goitre are described who presented with the superior vena cava syndrome. Venography in each case demonstrated the extent of obstruction and degree of collateral circulation. Early recognition of the association of intrathoracic goitre and superior vena caval obstruction may lead to clinical improvement with surgical treatment.