title: Dilated SMV in colon cancer--is there any significance.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Changes in splanchnic circulation have been seen in patients with colorectal cancer. We have previously reported that the inferior mesenteric vein is dilated in rectal cancer. We wanted to assess whether the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) is dilated in right-sided colon cancer.
  
  
  METHODS
  From a colorectal database, three cohorts were formed: right colon cancer, rectal cancer, and normal. The SMV (2 cm proximal to the confluence of the SMV and portal vein) and the gastrocolic trunk (GCT) were saved and anonymized. The short-axis diameter of the vein was measured independently by three radiologists.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The diameter of the SMV and GCT was higher in the right colon group than the other two groups. There was no correlation with the stage of tumor (locoregional or metastatic).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Patients with right colon cancer showed a significantly increased mean SMV diameter at presentation, which may be due to increased venous return secondary to neovascularization. Further studies are required to evaluate this further.
authors: Department of Clinical Radiology, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
authors: Aman N
authors: AN
authors: Khan
authors: Rajesh
authors: R
authors: Botchu
authors: Roshni
authors: R
authors: Patel
authors: Mosheir
authors: M
authors: Elabassy
mesh_terms: D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008642:Mesenteric Veins / Q000473:pathology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000473:pathology*; D014664:Vasodilation