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Updated: Dec 1, 2025

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Normal Lactate and Unenhanced CT-Scan Result in Delayed Diagnosis of Acute Mesenteric Ischemia
Alexandre Nuzzo1,2, Francisca Joly1,2, Maxime Ronot2,3
1APHP, Deparment of Gastroenterology, IBD and Intestinal Failure, Beaujon Hospital, Clichy, France.
Introduction:
To investigate the factors associated with a delayed diagnosis (DD) of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI).
Methods:
An observational cohort study from an intestinal failure center. The primary outcome was DD >24 hours.
Results:
Between 2006 and 2015, 74 patients with AMI were included and 39 (53%) had a DD. Plasma lactate <2 mmol/L (odd ratio: 3.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1-9.1; P = 0.03) and unenhanced computed tomography scan (odds ratio: 5.9; 95% confidence interval: 1.4-25.8; P = 0.01) were independently associated with DD.
Discussion:
Suspicion of AMI should no longer be affected by normal plasma lactate levels and should prompt evaluation by a contrast-enhanced computed tomography-scan.
Insights
Normal plasma lactate levels do not rule out acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI). Unenhanced CT scans are associated with delayed diagnosis of AMI, prompting the need for contrast-enhanced imaging.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a critical condition with high mortality.
- Delayed diagnosis (DD) significantly worsens patient outcomes in AMI.
- Identifying factors associated with DD is crucial for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate predictors of delayed diagnosis in patients with acute mesenteric ischemia.
- To identify clinical and radiological factors contributing to delayed AMI diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Observational cohort study conducted at an intestinal failure center.
- Included 74 patients diagnosed with AMI between 2006 and 2015.
- Primary outcome was defined as delayed diagnosis (DD) exceeding 24 hours.
Main Results:
- Over half of patients (53%) experienced a delayed diagnosis of AMI.
- Low plasma lactate levels (<2 mmol/L) were independently associated with DD (OR: 3.2, P=0.03).
- Unenhanced computed tomography (CT) scans were also independently associated with DD (OR: 5.9, P=0.01).
Conclusions:
- Normal plasma lactate levels should not deter suspicion of AMI.
- The use of unenhanced CT scans may contribute to delayed diagnosis.
- Contrast-enhanced CT scans are recommended for evaluating suspected AMI to avoid diagnostic delays.
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Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...

