Incidental Detection of Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava During Lung Perfusion Scan

Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology 2026

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Authors: Sanket Karangutkar, Lajos Szabados, Athar Haroon, Ghulam Mustafa Shah Syed
DOI: 10.2967/jnmt.125.270991
Cited by: 0
References: 1

Abstract

Lung perfusion scintigraphy is a cornerstone for evaluating pulmonary embolism but may reveal unexpected vascular anomalies. Persistent left superior vena cava, a congenital anomaly, can cause a right-to-left shunt when draining into the left atrium, bypassing pulmonary circulation. We report the incidental detection of persistent left superior vena cava during lung perfusion scintigraphy in a patient with post-COVID-19 hypoxia. Dual-site radiotracer injections and SPECT/CT confirmed the diagnosis, highlighting the need for adaptive imaging techniques to accurately interpret atypical findings in nuclear medicine.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Vascular anomalies and interventions Congenital Heart Disease Studies Venous Thromboembolism Diagnosis and Management

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology
Volume
54
Issue
2
Pages
212–213
Publication date
13 January 2026
Language
EN