Mesenteric venous thrombosis.
BACKGROUND
Mesenteric venous thrombosis is an uncommon but often lethal form of intestinal ischemia.


METHODS
We reviewed pertinent literature on mesenteric venous thrombosis using MEDLINE search.


RESULTS
We found that previous abdominal surgery and hypercoagulable states are the most common conditions associated with mesenteric venous thrombosis. The symptoms and signs related to mesenteric venous thrombosis are not specific. In the majority of cases, the diagnosis is established by a high index of clinical suspicion and noninvasive imaging techniques. Immediate operation is indicated if signs of peritonitis or intestinal infarction are present. Administration of heparin is beneficial for reducing recurrence and mortality.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinicians should consider the possibility of acute mesenteric venous thrombosis when faced with a patient having abdominal pain out of proportion to the physical findings and with a negative workup for the common causes of abdominal pain.
Hassan
H A
HA
Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, Little Rock 72205, USA.
Raufman
J P
JP
D006801:Humans; D008641:Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D008642:Mesenteric Veins; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy