Grading System for Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

 • Grade 0 - Asymptomatic - Radiographic superior vena cava obstruction in the absence of symptoms

 • Grade 1 - Mild - Edema in head or neck (vascular distention), cyanosis, plethora

 • Grade 2 - Moderate - Edema in head or neck with functional impairment (mild dysphagia, cough, mild or moderate impairment of head, jaw or eyelid movements, visual disturbances caused by ocular edema)

 • Grade 3 - Severe - Mild or moderate cerebral edema (headache, dizziness) or mild/moderate laryngeal edema or diminished cardiac reserve (syncope after bending)

 • Grade 4 - Life-threatening - Significant cerebral edema (confusion, obtundation) or significant laryngeal edema (stridor) or significant hemodynamic compromise (syncope without precipitating factors, hypotension, renal insufficiency)

 • Grade 5 - Fatal - Death



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