Segmental portal hypertension.

Abstract

Isolated obstruction of the splenic vein leads to segmental portal hypertension, which is a rare form of extrahepatic portal hypertension, but it is important to diagnose, since it can be cured by splenectomy. In a review of the English literature, 209 patients with isolated splenic vein obstruction were found. Pancreatitis caused 65% of the cases and pancreatic neoplasms 18%, whereas the rest was caused by various other diseases. Seventy-two per cent of the patients bled from gastroesophageal varices, and most often the bleeding came from isolated gastric varices. The spleen was enlarged in 71% of the patients. A correct diagnosis in connection with the first episode of bleeding was made in only 49%; 22% were operated on because of gastrointestinal bleeding, but the cause of bleeding was not found. The diagnosis should be suspected in patients with gastroesophageal varices, but without signs of a liver disease, especially if isolated gastric varices are found. The diagnosis is confirmed by portography.

• Authors: M S Madsen, T H Petersen, H Sommer
• Journal: Annals of surgery (Ann Surg) Vol. 204 Issue 1 Pg. 72-7 (Jul 1986) ISSN: 0003-4932 [Print] United States
• PMID: 3729585 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Child
• Child, Preschool
• Esophageal and Gastric Varices (complications)
• Female
• Humans
• Hypertension, Portal (complications, diagnosis, etiology, surgery)
• Infant
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Splenectomy
• Splenic Vein