What condition is characterized by venous symptoms and signs caused by narrowing or occlusion of the common or external iliac vein?

The condition characterized by venous symptoms and signs resulting from narrowing or occlusion of the common or external iliac vein is known as iliac vein obstruction syndrome. This syndrome typically manifests due to the physical compression of the iliac vein, often by anatomical structures like the iliac arteries or other surrounding tissues, leading to impaired venous outflow. The symptoms can include swelling, pain, and varicosities in the affected limb, indicative of venous stasis and hypertension.

While May-Thurner syndrome is a specific type of iliac vein obstruction syndrome caused by the compression of the left common iliac vein by the right common iliac artery, the term iliac vein obstruction syndrome encompasses a broader range of causes of similar venous symptoms. Deep vein thrombosis refers to blood clots in the deep veins, which can also cause venous symptoms but is a distinct condition from a structural obstruction. Chronic venous insufficiency results from various factors over time and is characterized by long-term venous dysfunction, not solely due to an acute obstruction of the iliac vein. Thus, iliac vein obstruction syndrome accurately describes the condition of narrowing or occlusion causing venous symptoms specific to the iliac veins.