Delayed diagnosis of chronic mesenteric ischaemia

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a rare condition characterized by inadequate blood flow to the intestines.
• Delayed diagnosis of CMI often leads to severe complications like bowel infarction.

Observation:

• Patients with CMI typically present with vague abdominal symptoms, profound weight loss, and food fear (sitophobia).
• A case report details a 58-year-old man with a two-year diagnostic delay despite numerous investigations.

Findings:

• Angiography is crucial for diagnosing CMI, revealing the extent of mesenteric artery stenosis or occlusion.
• Surgical intervention, such as mesenteric bypass, effectively resolves symptoms and restores normal habitus.

Implications:

• Early consideration of CMI in patients with unexplained weight loss and abdominal pain is vital.
• Timely diagnosis and treatment via endovascular stenting or surgery significantly improve patient outcomes and prevent life-threatening complications.