A case of fatal iliac vein rupture associated with May-Thurner syndrome.

May-Thurner syndrome results from long-standing compression of the left common iliac vein (LCIV) and is characterized by the formation of intraluminal spurs leading to obstruction of blood flow and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Increased intraluminal pressures may occur as a consequence of venous obstruction, which when coupled with other factors thought to further weaken venous wall integrity (ie, inflammation or hormonal imbalances) may produce spontaneous (nontraumatic) and potential lethal venous rupture.We report a case of DVT in a woman with previously undiagnosed May-Thurner syndrome and heterozygosity for factor V Leiden mutation on exogenous hormone therapy, with subsequent spontaneous rupture of the LCIV leading to fatal hemoperitoneum. Autopsy revealed fibrous obliteration of the junction between the LCIV and inferior vena cava with associated DVT, transmural venous rupture, and thrombophlebitis.