Thoracoepigastric vein

The Thoracoepigastric vein is a superficial vein that communicates between the superficial epigastric vein, which drains the anterior abdominal wall, and the lateral thoracic vein, which drains the lateral aspect of the thorax. This vein is clinically significant as it can become dilated in certain conditions, such as breast cancer and portal hypertension.

Anatomy

The thoracoepigastric vein runs vertically along the lateral aspect of the trunk, between the umbilicus and the nipple. It is a superficial vein, meaning it is close to the surface of the body. It connects the superficial epigastric vein, which drains the anterior abdominal wall, with the lateral thoracic vein, which drains the lateral aspect of the thoracic wall.

Clinical significance

The thoracoepigastric vein can become dilated in certain conditions. For example, in cases of breast cancer, the vein can become dilated due to the increased blood flow required by the tumor. This can be a sign of advanced disease.

In cases of portal hypertension, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the portal venous system, the thoracoepigastric vein can also become dilated. This is because the increased pressure in the portal system forces blood to find alternative routes back to the heart, and the thoracoepigastric vein can serve as one such route.

See also

• Superficial vein
• Epigastric veins
• Lateral thoracic vein