Superior mesenteric artery syndrome in conjunction with Crohn’s disease – a case report

Czech version

Authors: Červinková I.; Pavlovská D.; Charvátová M.; Skotáková J.
Authors‘ workplace: Klinika dětské radiologie LF MU a FN Brno
Published in: Gastroent Hepatol 2020; 74(6): 488-491
Category: Case Report
doi: https://doi.org/10.48095/ccgh2020488

Overview

Summary: Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a rare condition characterized by mechanical compression of the third part of the duodenum between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery. The relationship between Crohn‘s disease and SMAS is seldom described in literature, although patients with Crohn‘s disease have many predispositions to its development. We describe the case of a 17-year- -old female patient who has been dia gnosed with Crohn‘s disease for several years and has been experiencing symptoms of abdominal discomfort and significant weight loss for five months. Magnetic resonance imaging was a key method for dia gnosing SMAS. In addition, older contrast computed tomography scans were evaluated retrospectively with regards to the aortomesenteric angle and distance, the reduction of which is a dia gnostic criterion for SMAS. Our goal is to highlight the importance of measuring these values in patients with Crohn‘s disease for early detection of the risk of SMAS.

Keywords:

superior mesenteric artery syndrome – Crohn‘s disease – magnetic resonance imaging

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