Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026
05:07
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis mimicking acute appendicitis
Micah J Gaspary1, Jonathan Auten, David Durkovich
1Naval Medical Center San Diego, CA.
The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine
|June 22, 2011
Summary
Mesenteric venous thrombosis, a cause of abdominal pain, can be diagnosed earlier with computed tomography. This case shows hyperhomocysteinemia-related thrombosis in a young woman, enabling non-surgical treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Acute abdominal pain is a frequent emergency department presentation.
- Mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT) is a critical cause of acute abdominal pain, often diagnosed late.
- Traditional MVT diagnosis occurred during surgery or autopsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of non-occlusive superior mesenteric vein thrombosis.
- To highlight the role of computed tomography (CT) in early MVT diagnosis.
- To demonstrate the potential for non-surgical management of MVT.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 21-year-old female with acute right lower quadrant pain.
- Utilized computed tomography (CT) for diagnosis.
- Identified hyperhomocysteinemia as a contributing factor.
Main Results:
- Diagnosed non-occlusive superior mesenteric vein thrombosis.
- Attributed thrombosis to hyperhomocysteinemia.
- Facilitated earlier recognition and non-surgical treatment planning.
Conclusions:
- CT imaging can enable earlier diagnosis of MVT.
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a potential risk factor for MVT.
- Non-surgical treatment is increasingly feasible for MVT.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
01:18Veins of the Abdomen and Pelvis
The human body is a complex system of interconnected parts, and the circulatory system plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. One key component of this system is the inferior vena cava, a large vein responsible for returning blood from the abdominopelvic viscera and abdominal walls to the heart.
The inferior vena cava is fed by numerous smaller veins. The lumbar veins, for instance, drain the posterior abdominal wall, emptying both directly into the inferior vena cava and into the...
The inferior vena cava is fed by numerous smaller veins. The lumbar veins, for instance, drain the posterior abdominal wall, emptying both directly into the inferior vena cava and into the...
01:30Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...