A rare cause of abdominal pain: Portal vein thrombosis

Abstract

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is the blockage or narrowing of the portal vein by a thrombus, with or without extension to other segments of the splanchnic venous system. It is relatively rare and is linked to the presence of an underlying liver disease or prothrombotic disorders. Currently, PVT is being increasingly diagnosed due to advances in modern imaging techniques. The clinical presentation has a wide range, from an asymptomatic lesion to a potentially life-threatening situation. In this article, we present a young female patient who presented with abdominal symptoms. Imaging revealed the complete occlusion of the portal and splenic veins. The presence of PVT should be considered as a guideline for prothrombotic disorders, liver disease and other local and general factors that need to be investigated carefully. We hope that this case report will help increase awareness of the complexity associated with PVT among the medical community.