Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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What symptom might indicate the presence of SVC syndrome?

Swelling of the face and neck
Chest pain
Abdominal discomfort
Vertigo

The correct answer is: Swelling of the face and neck

Swelling of the face and neck is a classic symptom associated with Superior Vena Cava (SVC) syndrome. This condition arises when there is an obstruction of the superior vena cava, which is the large vein that carries blood from the head, neck, and upper limbs back to the heart. When the flow of blood through this vein is compromised, it can lead to the pooling of blood in the areas it drains, resulting in noticeable swelling, particularly in the face and neck. Patients may also experience a sense of fullness or heaviness in these areas due to the increased venous pressure. While chest pain, abdominal discomfort, and vertigo can occur in various clinical scenarios, they are not typical symptoms directly associated with SVC syndrome. Chest pain might suggest a cardiac or pulmonary issue, abdominal discomfort could relate to gastrointestinal conditions, and vertigo encompasses neurological or vestibular disorders. Therefore, the presence of swelling in the face and neck stands out as the primary indicator of SVC syndrome.