Superior mesenteric artery syndrome and anorexia nervosa: a case report

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is an underdiagnosed complication in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients, which results from weight loss-induced atrophy of the mesenteric fat pad, causing compression of the third part of the duodenum. SMA syndrome can be life-threatening as its nonspecific symptomatology often results in a delayed diagnosis. It is a rare condition, but its true prevalence may be higher than the reported numbers. A history of persistent nausea and vomiting after oral intake and weight loss in AN should raise suspicion about this diagnosis, as weight loss is the most significant factor in this diagnosis. Other high-risk factors include rapid, extreme weight loss, anatomical abnormalities, or a history of prior abdominal or spinal surgeries.

The patient presented in this report was a 26-year-old Caucasian female with a history of severe enduring anorexia nervosa. This patient suffered from an insidious case of SMA syndrome secondary to AN. This patient presented with vague symptoms of nausea and vomiting, persistent abdominal pain, and rapid weight loss. The patient was successfully treated but could have had a much different outcome if the diagnosis had been further delayed.

An awareness of SMA syndrome and its clinical presentation within similar populations can prevent complications and even fatalities that come with it.