Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis as a complication of acute appendicitis : report of a case

Abstract

Since superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (SMVT) is a relatively rare disease and shows no specific symptom, its diagnosis tends to be delayed. In this report, we present a patient in whom acute appendicitis was complicated by SMVT and portal vein thrombosis (PVT). A definitive diagnosis could be made by abdominal contrast-enhanced CT, and acute appendicitis was surgically treated. Anticoagulant therapy was continued for about half a year after surgery. Abdominal contrast-enhanced CT after discharge showed no recurrence of SMVT or PVT. We consider that acute appendicitis induced SMVT or PVT caused by the effect of inflammation. There is the possibility that these conditions lead to intestinal congestion or necrosis and liver dysfunction; appropriate diagnosis and treatment are necessary.