Isolated Dissections of Superior Mesenteric and Celiac Arteries Associated With Aortic Ectasia

Arterial dissection is defined as a tear in the inner lining of arteries, leading to the passage of blood between the layers and resulting in a false lumen. Arterial dissection involving the aorta is commonly seen in clinical practice; however, dissections involving the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries are quite rare. Even rare are isolated multiple visceral arterial dissections. A 59-year-old male with uncontrolled hypertension presented with epigastric pain. CT angiography revealed isolated dissection of the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries with ascending aortic ectasia, with no features of ischemia or organ dysfunction. He was managed conservatively with analgesics & anticoagulation. Repeat CT angiography after six months of anticoagulation therapy showed no progression of the disease. Isolated multiple visceral arterial dissection is a rare vascular disease that requires a high index of suspicion to diagnose. CT angiography is a useful imaging modality that helps not only in diagnosis but also in choosing a treatment plan. Though treatment options are controversial, conservative treatment with anticoagulation should be considered in uncomplicated cases of visceral arterial dissections.