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Assessment of Human Adipose Tissue Microvascular Function Using Videomicroscopy
Published on: September 29, 2017
Weight loss caused by visceral artery disease
William L Clifton1, Abby Kneitz, William E Cohn
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Texas Heart Institute Journal
|August 6, 2013
Summary
Unexplained weight loss in patients with cardiovascular disease may signal chronic mesenteric ischemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with stenting can lead to significant weight regain.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Unintentional weight loss (UWL) is a concerning symptom with diverse etiologies.
- Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease are at increased risk for atherosclerotic complications.
Observation:
- A 70-year-old woman with cardiovascular disease presented with significant UWL despite treatment for colitis.
- Angiography revealed severe stenosis of the celiac axis and occlusion of the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries.
Findings:
- Successful stenting of the celiac axis ostium resulted in immediate and sustained weight restoration.
- This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of mesenteric artery stenosis presenting as UWL.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider chronic mesenteric ischemia in patients with UWL and a history of atherosclerotic disease.
- Early recognition and intervention can improve outcomes and prevent further complications.
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