Internal jugular phlebectasia in children

Am J Otolaryngol. 1999 Nov-Dec;20(6):415-8. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0709(99)90085-6.

Abstract

Phlebectasia is an abnormal dilatation of an isolated vein, may affect any vein, and is usually asymptomatic. When the internal jugular vein is involved, it presents as a cervical swelling that can mimic the signs of either pharyngocele or a laryngocele and, because of its rarity, is frequently misdiagnosed. We describe 2 cases of phlebectasia of internal jugular vein in children with voice change in one of them. No treatment is necessary for this benign, self-limiting condition. Clinical features, diagnosis, treatment options, and a review of the literature about this rare venous lesion are presented.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Jugular Veins / abnormalities*
  • Jugular Veins / diagnostic imaging
  • Jugular Veins / surgery
  • Male
  • Ultrasonography
  • Valsalva Maneuver