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Journal of Medical Case Reports Jan 2024The worldwide vaccination response to COVID-19 has been associated with rare thrombotic complications, including the case of postvaccination splanchnic venous thrombosis...
BACKGROUND
The worldwide vaccination response to COVID-19 has been associated with rare thrombotic complications, including the case of postvaccination splanchnic venous thrombosis we report here.
CASE PRESENTATION
An 80-year-old Japanese male with abdominal pain presented to our hospital six days after receiving a dose of the COVID-19 messenger ribonucleic acid vaccine. Abdominal computed tomography showed localized edema of the small intestine, increased density of the surrounding adipose tissue, and a thrombus in the superior mesenteric vein. Conservative inpatient treatment with unfractionated heparin relieved the thrombosis, and the patient is currently receiving oral apixaban as an outpatient.
CONCLUSION
Reported cases of thrombosis after COVID-19 vaccination typically have been associated with viral vector vaccines, with few reports of thrombosis induced by mRNA vaccines. The potential for venous thrombosis should be explored when patients present with abdominal pain soon after COVID-19 vaccination.
Topics: Aged, 80 and over; Humans; Male; Abdominal Pain; COVID-19; COVID-19 Vaccines; Heparin; Mesenteric Ischemia; Mesenteric Veins; Vaccination; Venous Thrombosis
PubMed: 38200562
DOI: 10.1186/s13256-023-04320-2 -
Journal of Anatomy Apr 2024Odontocetes primarily rely on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans as their main source of nutrition. In the digestive system, their polygastric complex exhibits...
Odontocetes primarily rely on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans as their main source of nutrition. In the digestive system, their polygastric complex exhibits similarities to that of their closest terrestrial relatives such as cows, sheep, and giraffes, while the entero-colic tract shares similarities with terrestrial carnivores. The morphology, caliber, and structure of the odontocete intestine are relatively constant, and, since there is no caecum, a distinction between the small and large intestine and their respective subdivisions is difficult. To address this issue, we used the intestinal vascularization pattern, specifically the course and branching of the celiac artery (CA) and the cranial and caudal mesenteric arteries (CrMA and CdMA). A series of pictures and dissections of 10 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) were analyzed. Additionally, we performed a cast by injecting colored polyurethane foam in both arteries and veins to measure the caliber of the arteries and clarify their monopodial or dichotomous branching. Our results showed the presence of multiple duodenal arteries (DAs) detaching from the CA. The CrMA gave origin to multiple jejunal arteries, an ileocolic artery (ICA), and, in six cases, a CdMA. In four specimens, the CdMA directly originated from the abdominal aorta. The ICA gave rise to the mesenteric ileal branches (MIB) and mesenteric anti-ileal branches and the right colic arteries (RCA) and the middle colic arteries. From the CdMA originated the left colic and cranial rectal arteries (LCA and CrRA). The measurements revealed a mixed monopodial and dichotomous branching scheme. The analysis of the arteries and their branching gave us an instrument, based on comparative anatomy, to distinguish between the different intestinal compartments. We used the midpoint of anastomoses between MIB and RCA to indicate the border between the small and the large intestine, and the midpoint of anastomoses between LCA and CrRA, to tell the colon from the rectum. This pattern suggested an elongation of the duodenum and a shortening of the colic tract that is still present in this species. These findings might be related to the crucial need to possess a long duodenal tract to digest prey ingested whole without chewing. A short aboral part is also functional to avoid gas-producing colic fermentation. The rare origin of the CdMA on the CrMA might instead be a consequence of the cranial thrust of the abdominopelvic organs related to the loss of the pelvic girdle that occurred during the evolution of cetaceans.
Topics: Female; Animals; Cattle; Sheep; Bottle-Nosed Dolphin; Colic; Intestines; Mesenteric Arteries; Veins
PubMed: 38168875
DOI: 10.1111/joa.13989 -
Radiology Case Reports Sep 2023Abernethy malformation (congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt [CEPS]) is rare and is characterized by an aberrant connection between the portal and systemic veins,...
Abernethy malformation (congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt [CEPS]) is rare and is characterized by an aberrant connection between the portal and systemic veins, bypassing the liver. It can have varying presentations and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. It is usually diagnosed incidentally on abdominal imaging. Occlusion venography and measurement of portal pressures (pre- and postocclusion) is an important step in management. Complete occlusion of the malformation in cases where the portal veins in the liver are very small and the gradient is more than 10 mm Hg, can potentially lead to acute portal hypertensive complications, such as porto-mesenteric thrombosis. We report a case of Abernethy malformation diagnosed on an abdominal computed tomography scan that presented with neurological symptoms and was successfully managed by interventional radiology via endovascular closure through placement and sequential occlusion of 2 metal stents.
PubMed: 37388532
DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.06.019 -
European Journal of Surgical Oncology :... Oct 2023Few studies have evaluated variations of the main trunk of the superior mesenteric vessels. Particularly, the double superior mesenteric vein (DSMV) has not been... (Observational Study)
Observational Study
INTRODUCTION
Few studies have evaluated variations of the main trunk of the superior mesenteric vessels. Particularly, the double superior mesenteric vein (DSMV) has not been described in detail. This study aimed to establish the definition, anatomical characteristics, and underlying clinical significance of the DSMV.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A total of 115 patients with colorectal cancer were included in this retrospective study between March 2020 and March 2022. The anatomical characteristics were analyzed using computed tomography, three-dimensional image reconstructions, and surgical videos.
RESULTS
Among the patients enrolled, 22 (19.1%) had DSMVs. The median diameters of the right and left superior mesenteric veins were similar. The superior mesenteric artery was sandwiched between the right and the left superior mesenteric veins. The left superior mesenteric vein mainly crossed the ventral side of the superior mesenteric artery (63.6%). In 1 case, the right superior mesenteric vein was mistakenly resected intraoperatively. The DSMV was classified into types I and II based on whether the right and left trunks formed a common trunk; it was further classified into subtypes a and b based on the colonic vein confluence. The proportions of type I-a, I-b, II-a, and II-b were 4.5%, 27.3%, 9.1%, and 59.1%, respectively. The middle colic veins drained into the left superior mesenteric vein in 19 cases (86.4%).
CONCLUSIONS
The DSMV is more common than previously thought. For the first time, the definition and four types of the DSMV were proposed. The presence of a DSMV should be considered during right hemicolectomies.
Topics: Humans; Mesenteric Veins; Colonic Neoplasms; Retrospective Studies; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Colectomy; Mesenteric Artery, Superior; Tomography
PubMed: 37455181
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2023.06.024 -
Cureus Dec 2023Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) and invasive aspergillosis (IA) are two examples of the broad clinical spectrum of infection. It mainly affects severely...
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) and invasive aspergillosis (IA) are two examples of the broad clinical spectrum of infection. It mainly affects severely immunocompromised hosts, while immunocompetent people can sometimes be affected, especially those receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) for emergency cases with few instances of chronic cases. The risk factors in ICU patients for aspergillosis include intubated patients receiving hot and humidified air, viral infections like covid, and influenza, and diseases like diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc. A case of 35-year-old male reported to us with a complaint of stomach discomfort that was acute and non-progressive in the epigastric area, radiating to the back, not accompanied by fever, and not linked with loose stools/vomiting. In addition, the patient experienced a nonproductive cough for two days that was not associated with dyspnea or chest discomfort. He had a high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) thorax, which revealed a single pulmonary nodule in the left lung's middle zone; histology of the same nodule biopsy material revealed that it was caused by . He had an abdominal ultrasound, which revealed portal vein thrombosis, dilated periportal tortuous veins, evident peri splenic and mesenteric collaterals, and significant splenomegaly - suggestive of portal cavernoma formation with chronic liver parenchymal disease. Our patient has a past history of alcohol use disorder for the last 15 years due to which the patient has had recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis for the last three years which has now progressed to chronic pancreatitis, also the patient has been diabetic for the last 10 years on insulin for the same. A patient with multiple comorbidities, such as cirrhotic portal cavernoma, type 2 diabetes, diabetic neuropathy, and acute and chronic pancreatitis, is the subject of our case study on chronic IPA.
PubMed: 38179385
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49944 -
Translational Gastroenterology and... 2024As tumors invade major abdominal veins, surgical procedures are transformed from simple and basic to complicated and challenging. In this narrative review, we focus on... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
As tumors invade major abdominal veins, surgical procedures are transformed from simple and basic to complicated and challenging. In this narrative review, we focus on what is currently known and not known regarding the technical aspects of major abdominal venous resection and its reconstruction, patency, and oncologic benefit in a cross-cutting perspective.
METHODS
A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed and Semantic Scholar from inception up to October 18, 2023. We reviewed 106 papers by title, abstract, and full text regarding resection or reconstruction of the inferior vena cava, hepatic vein confluence, portal vein (PV), and middle hepatic vein (MHV) tributaries in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in a cross-cutting perspective.
KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS
The oncologic benefit of aggressive hepatic vein resection with suitable reconstruction against adenocarcinoma remains unclear, and further studies are required to clarify this point. A superior mesenteric/PV resection is now a universal, indispensable, and effective procedure for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Although many case series using tailor-made autologous venous grafts have been reported, not only size mismatch but also additional surgical incisions and a longer operation time remain obstacles for venous reconstruction. The use of autologous alternative tissue remains only an alternative procedure because the patency rate of customized tubular conduit type to interpose or replace the resected vein is not known. Unlike arterial replacement, venous replacement using synthetic vascular grafts is still rarely reported and there are several inherent limitations except for reconstruction of tributaries of MHV in LDLT.
CONCLUSIONS
Various approaches to abdominal vein resection and replacement or reconstruction are technically feasible with satisfactory results. Synthetic vascular grafts may be appropriate but have a certain rate of complications.
PubMed: 38716218
DOI: 10.21037/tgh-23-90 -
Cureus Dec 2023Mesenteric vein thrombosis (MVT) is a rare pathological entity that results in compromised venous return from the intestine due to involvement, in most cases, of the...
Mesenteric vein thrombosis (MVT) is a rare pathological entity that results in compromised venous return from the intestine due to involvement, in most cases, of the superior mesenteric vein. Its diagnosis is not straightforward, since the findings on physical examination are often disproportionate to the patient's pain complaints, leading to it being undervalued by clinicians. The patient is a 48-year-old female with a medical history of essential arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, class II obesity, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. She also had a family history of gastric and colon cancer, with an age at diagnosis of over 70 years. She went to an appointment at a primary care facility for abdominal pain located in the left hypochondrium and flank, with ipsilateral lumbar irradiation and no other accompanying symptoms. Physical examination revealed a globose, depressible abdomen, painful on palpation of the left quadrants, with no other associated signs of peritoneal irritation. Due to suspicion of acute diverticulitis, the patient was referred to the emergency department (ED) for assessment by general surgery. In the emergency department, given the patient's body type and the fact that the physical examination findings were disproportionate to her symptoms, an abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scan was ordered, which revealed complete thrombosis of the entire length of the inferior mesenteric vein, with a focal extension of the thrombus, partially obstructing the confluence with the superior mesenteric and portal veins. Various complementary diagnostic tests were requested, which revealed no clinically significant findings, and obesity was therefore identified as the only risk factor. In this context, the patient started anticoagulation with warfarin, with the indication that it should be ad aeternum. To date, the patient remains asymptomatic, and there have been no new thrombotic events. Given the high morbidity and mortality rates of this pathological entity, it is imperative that clinicians are trained to recognize the typical signs of mesenteric venous thrombosis, in the characteristic epidemiological context, in order to establish a timely diagnosis and carry out early targeted therapeutic intervention.
PubMed: 38058525
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49966 -
Cureus Dec 2023The growth of several porto-portal collateral veins encircling an existing stenosed or obstructed entry vein is an uncommon condition known as portal cavernoma. It is...
The growth of several porto-portal collateral veins encircling an existing stenosed or obstructed entry vein is an uncommon condition known as portal cavernoma. It is traditionally shown as the entry vein thrombosis (portal vein thrombosis - PVT) outcome. A male of 25 years with stomach discomfort for three days that was acute, nonprogressive, and was not accompanied by fever, loose stools, or vomiting. After he had undergone abdominal ultrasonography, portal vein thrombosis was discovered, and based on no involvement of suprahepatic veins according to ultrasonography, Budd-Chiari syndrome was ruled out. It was accompanied by dilated periportal tortuous veins and visible mesenteric and peri-splenic collaterals. Moderate splenomegaly was also present. All these features on ultrasound were suggestive of the "portal cavernoma" formation. The patient is not an alcoholic and does not have any chronic, hereditary, or metabolic liver disease. Thrombophilia and cancer screening through tumor markers were also negative. We, with this, present a rare case of non-cirrhotic idiopathic portal cavernoma. This rare case contributes to advancing medical and scientific knowledge that will encourage further dialogue on the topic.
PubMed: 38229806
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50570 -
Idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of mesenteric veins: radiological evaluation using CT angiography.BJR Case Reports Jan 2024A 44-year-old man presented with a chief complaint of constipation. Initial contrast-enhanced CT showed extensive bowel wall thickening, mainly in the left colon, with a...
A 44-year-old man presented with a chief complaint of constipation. Initial contrast-enhanced CT showed extensive bowel wall thickening, mainly in the left colon, with a thin cord-like inferior mesenteric vein (IMV), in contrast to ectatic mesenteric venous branches, suggesting bowel ischaemia owing to venous stasis. One month later, at the time of symptom exacerbation, CT angiography showed a cord-like IMV and ectatic mesenteric venous branches with early enhancement, suggesting the presence of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Owing to the progression of bowel ischaemia and necrosis with peritonitis, emergency surgery was performed. Surgical specimens showed focal myointimal hyperplasia of the proximal mesenteric veins in both ischaemic and non-ischaemic lesions of the resected colon, thus leading to the diagnosis of idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of mesenteric veins (IMHMV) when combined with the clinical and imaging findings. IMHMV is a bowel ischaemic disease caused by non-thrombotic venous obstruction that requires bowel resection and has been suggested to be associated with AVF. Cord-like IMV and AVF in the mesentery are important CT findings that characterize IMHMV. CT angiography is useful in diagnosing IMHMV.
PubMed: 38352257
DOI: 10.1093/bjrcr/uaad009 -
Frontiers in Cell and Developmental... 2024The bileaflet valves found in collecting lymphatic vessels and some veins are essential for maintaining a unidirectional flow, which is important for lymphatic and...
The bileaflet valves found in collecting lymphatic vessels and some veins are essential for maintaining a unidirectional flow, which is important for lymphatic and venous function. Under an adverse pressure gradient, the two leaflets tightly overlap to prevent backflow. Valves are proposed to share four main stages of development, based on images obtained from randomly oriented valves in fixed mouse embryos, with the best structural views obtained from larger venous valves. It is not known at what stage lymphatic valves (LVs) become functional (e.g., able to oppose backflow), although a requirement for stage 4 is presumed. To gain an insight into this sequence of events for LVs, we used mice and mouse models, in which deletion of the valve repressor factor promotes the development of new LVs in adult lymphatic vessels. Both strains also contained a reporter to image the lymphatic endothelium. Mesenteric collecting lymphatic vessels were dissected, cannulated, and pressurized for tests of valve function. LVs at various stages (1-4 and intermediate) were identified in multi-valve segments, which were subsequently shortened to perform the backleak test on single valves. The GFP signal was then imaged at high magnification using a confocal microscope. Z-stack reconstructions enabled 1:1 comparisons of LV morphology with a quantitative measurement of back leak. As expected, LVs of stages 1-3 were completely leaky in response to outflow pressure elevation. Stage 4 valves were generally not leaky, but valve integrity depended on the Cre line used to induce new valve formation. A high percentage of valves at leaflet an intermediate stage (3.5), in which there was an insertion of a second commissure, but without proper luminal alignment, effectively resisted back leak when the outflow pressure was increased. Our findings represent the first 3D images of developing lymphatic valves and indicate that valves become competent between stages 3 and 4 of development.
PubMed: 38450249
DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1331291