Budd-Chiari syndrome - various etiologies and imagistic findings. A pictorial review

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Hepatology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Budd Chiari syndrome involves hepatic venous outflow obstruction.
• Causes are primary (thrombosis) or secondary (compression/invasion).
• Symptoms range from asymptomatic thrombosis to liver failure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the ultrasonographic features of Budd Chiari syndrome.
• To demonstrate Budd Chiari syndrome in conjunction with other conditions.
• To highlight ultrasonography's diagnostic role.

Main Methods:

• Pictorial essay format.
• Focus on abdominal ultrasonography.
• Case examples including abdominal malignancy, hematologic disorders, and post-surgical cases.

Main Results:

• Ultrasonography effectively visualizes hepatic vein obstruction.
• Associated conditions can alter or mask typical ultrasonographic findings.
• Specific imaging patterns are shown for Budd Chiari syndrome with comorbidities.

Conclusions:

• Abdominal ultrasonography is crucial for diagnosing Budd Chiari syndrome.
• Recognizing ultrasonographic signs in complex cases is vital for patient management.
• This essay provides a visual guide for identifying Budd Chiari syndrome in diverse clinical settings.