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Updated: Apr 7, 2026
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Acute Mesenteric Ischemia Caused by Rare Cardiac Tumor Embolus
Michael J Clores1, Farah Monzur2, Ramona Rajapakse2
1Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY.
Abstract:
Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a rare vascular emergency associated with a high mortality rate. The most common cause of AMI is cardiac emboli from thrombi associated with atrial fibrillation or following myocardial infarction. We present a case of AMI caused by a unique source of emboli, confirmed as an embolization of a cardiac sarcoma to the small bowel by matching biopsies obtained from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the embolic source.
Insights
Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI), a rare vascular emergency, is often caused by cardiac emboli. This case highlights a unique cause: cardiac sarcoma embolizing to the small bowel, confirmed by biopsy.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a critical vascular condition with high mortality.
- Commonly caused by cardiac emboli from conditions like atrial fibrillation or myocardial infarction.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms of AMI.
- The source of emboli was investigated.
Findings:
- A rare case of AMI was identified.
- The cause was confirmed as an embolus originating from a cardiac sarcoma.
- Biopsies from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the cardiac tumor matched.
Implications:
- This case expands the differential diagnosis for AMI.
- Highlights the importance of considering rare embolic sources in vascular emergencies.
- Suggests a need for thorough investigation of embolic origins in AMI.
