Mesenteric ischemia occurs when one or more mesenteric arteries that supply blood to the intestines become blocked, leading to a life-threatening situation. Causes include atherosclerosis, low blood pressure, and blood clots. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever. Diagnosis involves imaging tests, and treatment may involve surgery, stents, or blood thinners. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
The intestines are extensively supplied with blood by three main arteries known as the mesenteric arteries. When there is a blockage in one or more of these arteries, intestinal blood flow will decrease considerably or stop completely. Mesenteric ischemia is the name of the condition that occurs when this happens. Loss of intestinal blood circulation can lead to a life-threatening situation. Consequently, people suspected of having mesenteric ischemia should receive immediate medical attention.
Mesenteric ischemia most commonly affects the small intestine. One cause of this condition may be atherosclerosis. With atherosclerosis, fatty deposits build up in one or more intestinal mesenteric arteries. This can cause the arteries to narrow, which can severely restrict sufficient blood flow. The deposits can eventually lead to a complete blockage of the mesenteric artery.
Sometimes a person may develop mesenteric ischemia due to a reason unrelated to the intestinal arteries. For example, low blood pressure can be another cause of this condition. There are many reasons a person may have low blood pressure. In many cases, heart disease can cause abnormally low blood pressure. Individuals who go into shock and suffer from chronic illnesses such as kidney disease may also be more prone to lower than average blood pressure.
The blood supply to the intestines can also be cut off due to blood clots. It is possible for a blood clot from anywhere in the body to break off and travel through the blood. If the clot ends up in any of the mesenteric arteries, blood flow to the entire artery could be compromised. As a result of the clots, mesenteric ischemia can develop.
A symptom of mesenteric ischemia can be severe abdominal pain that can appear very suddenly. The pain may be followed by diarrhea. Some people with this condition may have bloody stools, vomit, develop a fever, and have a swollen abdomen that can be very tender. There may also be fever and loss of appetite. Commonly, eating can cause many of these symptoms to appear, which can further lead to a disinterest in food.
A computed tomography (CT) scan, x-ray, or more invasive test such as an arteriogram may be done to diagnose mesenteric ischemia. An anteriogram involves administering dye into the bloodstream to accurately identify an artery abnormality such as a blockage. To treat this potentially life-threatening condition, doctors may perform surgery to bypass a blockage or to remove a blood clot from the mesenteric artery. Some patients may have a stent placed in the artery to keep it open once the blockage is cleared. Also, blood thinners can be used to prevent further clots.
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