Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Superior mesenteric artery syndrome in type 1 diabetes masquerading as gastroparesis
Luigi F Meneghini1, Anthony R Hogan, Gennaro Selvaggi
1Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA. lmeneghi@med.miami.edu
Objective:
To describe and discuss a case of superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) presenting with gastrointestinal signs and symptoms mistakenly attributed to, and treated as, diabetic gastroparesis.
Research Design And Methods:
A case report was compiled describing the clinical presentation, including history and physical examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a patient with type 1 diabetes presenting with gastrointestinal complications.
Results:
Clinical suspicion combined with the appropriate radiological evaluation led to a diagnosis of SMAS, with classic findings of reduced aortomesenteric angle and distance. Surgical intervention resulted in resolution of symptoms and recovery of glycemic control.
Conclusions:
The possibility of SMAS should be considered in patients with type 1 diabetes presenting with gastrointestinal symptomatology, especially when associated with weight loss.
Related Concept Videos
Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
Type I Diabetes III: Clinical Manifestations
Esophageal Achalasia
Type II Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational