[Cerebral abscess due to abnormal caval return].

A case of abnormal venous return is reported. It was discovered during investigation of a cerebral abscess. There was a persisting and unique left superior vena cava, draining in the left atrium. No other cardiac malformation was present. This abnormality is rare as only 2 other cases have been reported. It should be suspected in children presenting with cyanosis, clubbing of the fingers and left ventricular hypertrophy on electrocardiography.