A case of angiographically verified non-occlusive mesentery ischemia induced by digitalis

Here we present a case of non-occlusive mesentery ischemia induced by digitalis, which was verified angiographically. Nonocclusive mesentery ischemia, a subgroup of "acute mesentery ischemia", is known as a period of intestinal ischemic hypoperfusion without a demonstrable vascular occlusion in the mesentery bed. It can be caused by factors leading to splanchnic hypoperfusion, which can be of cardiac, renal or hepatic origin. In addition, it can be induced by certain drugs such as digitalis, ergotamines and vasoactive agents. In clinical practice, digitalis toxicity is commonly seen. In contrast, non-occlusive mesentery ischemia secondary to digitalis is quite rare. However, nonocclusive mesentery ischemia should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients who develop sudden and diffuse abdominal pain while on digitalis therapy.