Right atrial thrombosis related to central venous catheter in a patient with Hodgkin's lymphoma

Central venous catheters (CVC) are commonly used in clinical practice. Although long-term complications are uncommon, catheter-related right atrial thrombosis is a rare but potentially life-threatening one. The optimal management is still controversial. We report the case of a young woman affected by Hodgkin lymphoma with CVC-related right atrial thrombosis diagnosed during routine echocardiography. After initial anticoagulation treatment, she complicated with pulmonary embolism, and the mass was surgically removed via a minimally invasive approach with right minithoracotomy access. Surgery was well tolerated, without complications and with prompt recovery. This case confirms how CVC can lead to thrombosis in the right atrium and how this complication can rapidly deteriorate. Moreover, the possible treatment options for the successful management of this complication are discussed, along with the available literature, showing the advantages of a minimally invasive approach.