Pulmonary Vein Thrombosis Associated with a Large Hiatal Hernia

Background

Pulmonary vein thrombosis is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition. Reported cases of pulmonary vein thrombosis commonly occur as a complication of pulmonary surgery. There is a paucity of literature describing its clinical manifestations and non-operative causes.

Objective

We report the unique case of pulmonary vein thrombosis associated with a large hiatal hernia in a patient initially presenting with renal infarction.

Case Report

A 68-year-old man initially presented with increasing intensity of left lower quadrant pain. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen revealed left renal infarctions. Searching for an embolic source, further investigation revealed left inferior pulmonary vein thrombosis in the setting of venous compression in the lung tissue adjacent to a large hiatal hernia.

Conclusion

Large hiatal hernias may be a nidus for pulmonary vein thrombosis, a potential source of left-sided emboli.