A Case of Septic Portal Vein Thrombosis in a 71-Year-Old Female

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a relatively rare condition that is characterized by partial or complete occlusion of the portal vein. The most common risk factors for developing PVT are a result of a low intra-hepatic vein flow or pro-thrombotic states, including underlying liver disease, coagulopathies, infection, and malignancy. Patients with PVT can present asymptomatically, while others are in profound shock. Clinical manifestations vary based on the location of the thrombus, degree of occlusion, and if it has become infected. Although an uncommon source of sepsis in the emergency department (ED), maintaining a high degree of clinical suspicion for septic PVT is critical as there are additional treatment considerations apart from early antibiotic therapy as in general sepsis. The following case report focuses on a 71-year-old woman with a septic PVT who presented to the ED with fever and hypotension in the absence of known risk factors. Current management guidelines and evidence regarding treatment strategies for septic PVT are also discussed in further detail.