Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease
Alternate Names : Pulmonary Vaso-Occlusive Disease
DefinitionA rare form of primary pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs) in which progressive obstruction of the pulmonary veins leads to elevated blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
In most cases, the cause is unknown, but it may be related to a viral infection. It may occur as a complication of certain connective tissue diseases, such as lupus or CREST, or as a complication of certain blood cancers (leukemia or lymphoma) or chemotherapy.
The disorder is most common amongst children and young adults. Progression of the disease leads to narrowed pulmonary veins, pulmonary hypertension, congestion, and edema (swelling) of the lungs.
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