Azygos vein (Vena azygos)

Layer: Vessels

Educational content only — not medical advice.

Anatomy

A major longitudinal thoracic vein ascending in the posterior mediastinum on the right of the spine, arching over the right lung root to terminate in the superior vena cava.

Clinical notes

Prime cavocaval collateral channel between the superior and inferior vena cava; becomes engorged in vena caval obstruction and portal hypertension.

Related structures

Educational references

FAQ

What is the role of the Azygos vein?

A major longitudinal thoracic vein ascending in the posterior mediastinum on the right of the spine, arching over the right lung root to terminate in the superior vena cava.

Why is the Azygos vein clinically important?

Prime cavocaval collateral channel between the superior and inferior vena cava; becomes engorged in vena caval obstruction and portal hypertension.

Source & license

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