Aneurysm of the popliteal vein, a rare source of pulmonary embolism

Venous aneurysms are a rare pathology. The possible complications are ruptu re, thrombosis and subsequently pulmonary embolism. The case of a 54-year-o ld male is reported, who was admitted on the suspicion of pulmonary embolis m to our department. This suspicion was confirmed by scintigraphy and compu ted tomography. Further examination by colour coded duplex sonography showe d an aneurysm of the popliteal vein in clinically asymptomatic legs, as a p ossible cause of the pulmonary embolism. The finding was confirmed phlebogr aphically. After successful surgical treatment of the aneurysm the patient got an anticoagulation therapy for 6 months. in the case of thromboembolism the entire venous system can be affected. Therefore an examination of the peripheral veins should be carried out whenever there is an occurrence of p ulmonary embolism.