Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis complicating appendicular masses

Saudi Med J. 2003 Sep;24(9):1016-8.

Abstract

Mesenteric vein thrombosis (MVT) is rare. Its diagnosis is usually difficult and delayed. Herein, we report 2 patients who developed MVT as a complication of an appendicular mass. One of them had appendectomy and developed fever 10 days postoperatively. The other was treated conservatively. An abdominal computerized tomography (CT) scan with intravenous contrast was helpful in diagnosing the superior MVT in both patients, which were not suspected. Intravenous contrast should be used when performing CT of an appendicular mass. Special interest should be directed at studying the superior mesenteric vein. Early diagnosis of our patients helped to start early medical treatment with anticoagulation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / diagnosis
  • Adult
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Appendectomy
  • Appendicitis / complications*
  • Appendicitis / surgery
  • Enoxaparin / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / complications
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / diagnosis
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / drug therapy
  • Mesenteric Veins / pathology*
  • Radiography, Abdominal
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Venous Thrombosis / complications
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnosis*
  • Venous Thrombosis / drug therapy
  • Warfarin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Enoxaparin
  • Warfarin