Double Inferior Vena Cava Co-Existing with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

The embryogenesis of the inferior vena cava is a complex process involving multiple steps for the three pairs of embryonic veins. Improper completion of this process may lead to anatomic anomalies of the inferior vena cava (IVC) and its tributaries. A rare case of combined double inferior vena cava (DIVC) with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is described in a 60-year-old Thai male cadaver. This case is discussed, together with embryogenesis, the congenital anomalies of DIVC and IVCs in general, and the clinical significance of these anatomical conditions. We conclude that it is important for physicians and medical educators to have a comprehensive knowledge not just of normal anatomy but also of anatomical variations of the IVC.