Ultrasonographic examinations were used to characterise and describe perivascular changes of the jugular vein like abscess, hematoma and periphlebitis. Well circumscribed masses with irregular, multiple, hypoechogenic areas, corresponding to fluids and necrotic tissues, suggested an abscess. A fresh hematoma, adjacent to the wall of the vein was shown as a clearly delineated structure with a hyperechogenic content. Cases with periphlebitis were characterised by a diffuse anechoic accumulation of fluids infiltrating the perivascular tissue. The diagnoses were proven by needle aspiration biopsy using ultrasound control.