Which syndrome is characterized by a partial blockage of blood flow from the upper body to the heart?

The condition characterized by a partial blockage of blood flow from the upper body to the heart is known as Superior Vena Cava Syndrome. This syndrome occurs when there is an obstruction of the superior vena cava, a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the head, neck, upper body, and arms back to the right atrium of the heart.

The blockage can be caused by various factors, including tumors, blood clots, or inflammation, which can compress the vein and hinder the normal circulation of blood. Symptoms often include swelling of the face and arms, difficulty breathing, and prominent veins in the neck and chest, all stemming from the impaired venous drainage associated with the obstruction.

The other options refer to different cardiovascular conditions: Inferior Vena Cava Syndrome relates to issues with the lower body’s blood return; Coronary Artery Disease pertains to the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, affecting blood supply to the heart muscle; while Heart Failure Syndrome involves the heart's inability to pump effectively to meet the body's needs and is not primarily characterized by a blockage of venous blood flow. Understanding the distinctions between these conditions helps clarify why Superior Vena Cava Syndrome is the correct answer in this context.