Superior Vena Cava Syndrome and Cardiac Tamponade Caused by Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in An 8 Year-Old Girl

Superior vena cava syndrome is a medical emergency and most often manifests in patients with malignant disease process within the thorax. A cardiac tamponade is a clinical syndrome caused by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, resulting in reduced ventricular filling and subsequent hemodynamic compromise. Superior vena cava syndrome and symptomatic pericardial effusion occurring as the initial presentation of Hodgkin's lymphoma is uncommon, and the documented literature is limited. Authors present the case of an 8-years old girl who presented with a superior vena cava syndrome and a cardiac tamponade revealing a highly suspected Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Patient underwent an emergency subxiphoid percutaneous drainage and a pleuropericardial window. The biopsy was consistent with high suspicion of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Through this case, authors aim to emphasize the importance of promptly reaching a diagnosis, as it can help prevent severe complications and enhance the patient's prognosis.