Congenital antithrombin III deficiency causing mesenteric venous infarction: a lesson to remember--a case history

Congenital antithrombin III deficiency is an uncommon but important cause of venous thrombosis, usually presenting with recurrent or atypical venous thromboembolism. Its importance lies in the fact that early recognition can lead to treatment in the acute stage, which can prevent propagation of the disease, and further prophylactic treatment may reduce the incidence of further episodes. The authors present a case of mesenteric venous infarction associated with congenital antithrombin III deficiency and briefly discuss the diagnosis, surgical implications, and treatment of this disorder.