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Mesenteric venous thrombosis
1Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, Little Rock 72205, USA.
Background:
Mesenteric venous thrombosis is an uncommon but often lethal form of intestinal ischemia.
Methods:
We reviewed pertinent literature on mesenteric venous thrombosis using MEDLINE search.
Results:
We found that previous abdominal surgery and hypercoagulable states are the most common conditions associated with mesenteric venous thrombosis. The symptoms and signs related to mesenteric venous thrombosis are not specific. In the majority of cases, the diagnosis is established by a high index of clinical suspicion and noninvasive imaging techniques. Immediate operation is indicated if signs of peritonitis or intestinal infarction are present. Administration of heparin is beneficial for reducing recurrence and mortality.
Conclusion:
Clinicians should consider the possibility of acute mesenteric venous thrombosis when faced with a patient having abdominal pain out of proportion to the physical findings and with a negative workup for the common causes of abdominal pain.
Insights
Mesenteric venous thrombosis, a rare cause of intestinal ischemia, is often linked to prior surgery and clotting disorders. Early diagnosis and heparin treatment can improve outcomes and reduce recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT) is a rare but frequently fatal condition causing intestinal ischemia.
- It presents a diagnostic challenge due to non-specific symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on mesenteric venous thrombosis.
- To highlight diagnostic and management strategies for MVT.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE.
- Pertinent studies on mesenteric venous thrombosis were reviewed.
Main Results:
- Previous abdominal surgery and hypercoagulable states are common predisposing factors for MVT.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion and noninvasive imaging.
- Heparin administration is effective in reducing MVT recurrence and mortality.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians should suspect acute mesenteric venous thrombosis in patients with severe abdominal pain disproportionate to physical findings.
- Consider MVT in cases with negative workups for more common abdominal pain etiologies.