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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
05:07
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
[Superior mesenteric arterial thrombosis complicating ulcerative colitis: A case report]
Yuji Noda1, Fumitoshi Watanabe, Yasuhiko Maruyama
1Department of Gastroenterology, Fujieda City General Community Hospital.
Summary
A rare case of arterial thrombosis, a serious complication of ulcerative colitis, was observed in a 36-year-old man. Prompt surgical intervention was required due to insufficient thrombolysis, highlighting the potential link between active colitis and clot formation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
- Arterial thrombosis is an uncommon complication of UC.
- Mesenteric artery thrombosis presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old male patient with active ulcerative colitis presented with severe abdominal pain.
- Computed tomography revealed a thrombus in the superior mesenteric artery.
- Initial intra-arterial thrombolysis yielded insufficient results.
Findings:
- The patient underwent emergency laparotomy and thrombectomy on the same day.
- Histopathological examination confirmed arterial thrombosis.
- The case underscores the rare but severe vascular complications associated with active ulcerative colitis.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential association between active ulcerative colitis and the development of arterial thrombosis.
- Early recognition and aggressive management are crucial for patients with UC experiencing acute abdominal symptoms suggestive of vascular compromise.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the prothrombotic mechanisms in active ulcerative colitis.
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