Thrombosis in the superior mesenteric artery simulating acute pancreatitis. A case report

A case of thrombosis in the superior mesenteric artery simulating acute pancreatitis, but causing intestinal gangrene, is described. The possibility of other simulating diseases must always be considered when non-operative peritoneal lavage is used as a treatment of acute pancreatitis. Bacteriological examination of the peritoneal fluid might be beneficial. Laparotomy is indicated when there is a marked discrepancy between the general condition of the patient and the objective clinical signs of pancreatitis.