[Computer tomographic demonstration of so-called azygos continuation in the absence of the hepatic segment of the inferior vena cava. Three case reports (author's transl)].

Dilatation of the azygos vein is usually due to increased pressure or flow, rarely is it diopathic. Another cause is so-called continuation of the azygos in cases of absence of the hepatic segment of the inferior vena cava. The method of choice for the investigation of azygos dilatation nowadays is computer tomography. Anomalies of the inferior vena cava can be recognized in this way unequivocally by a non-invasive method. Computer tomography frequently shows important additional abnormalities (eg. situs inversus, polysplenia), since it demonstrates all organs situated in the plane of section.