Common iliac vein thrombosis as a result of proximal venous stenosis following renal transplantation: A case report

- This case reports proximal iliac vein stenosis that threatens a renal allograft.
- Catheter-directed alteplase thrombolysis was used to salvage the allograft.
- We propose a diagnostic strategy and management algorithm.

Proximal iliac vein stenosis resulting in iliac vein thrombus and venous outflow obstruction in renal transplant patients is an exceedingly rare occurrence. We present a case of a 63-year-old male who underwent deceased donor renal transplantation and presented 12 days later with ipsilateral lower extremity swelling and plateauing serum creatinine. Further work-up demonstrated proximal iliac vein deep venous thrombosis and anticoagulation was initiated. However, propagation of the thrombus developed despite receiving therapeutic anticoagulation. Subsequent venography demonstrated proximal iliac venous stenosis and the patient underwent successful catheter-directed alteplase thrombolysis, inferior vena cava filter placement and iliac vein stenting with salvage of the renal allograft. A diagnostic strategy and management algorithm for iliac vein stenosis and thrombosis in a renal transplant recipient is proposed.