Celiac territory ischemic syndrome in visceral artery occlusion

Abdominal angina that is characterized by postprandial pain, and often associated with weight loss, is a well-recognized symptom complex of mesenteric artery insufficiency (mesenteric territory symptoms). In the past 5 years, we have observed six patients with atypical symptoms who had mesenteric artery occlusion combined with stenosis or occlusion of the celiac artery. Atypical symptoms included severe nausea and vomiting at the sight or smell of food, anorexia, weight loss, and right upper quadrant or epigastric discomfort (celiac territory symptoms). An extensive work-up to rule out gastric, pancreatic, biliary, or colonic pathology was undertaken in these patients. The findings included gallbladder dysfunction, diffuse micro-ulceration of gastric mucosa, and colonic mucosal ulceration. The diagnosis of visceral artery occlusion was initially missed in all six patients. Four patients had cholecystectomy. Visceral angiography confirmed occlusion of the celiac, superior, and inferior mesenteric arteries. Five patients had dramatic resolution of symptoms after restoration of visceral circulation. One patient who developed intestinal infarction before revascularization died. Symptoms suggesting upper abdominal visceral pathology may be a manifestation of celiac artery stenosis/occlusion coexisting with mesenteric artery occlusive disease. Visceral angiography should be part of the work-up in these patients for early diagnosis and prompt management.