Superior mesenteric artery syndrome: an uncommon cause of abdominal pain mimicking gastric outlet obstruction

Abstract

Upper gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, abdominal distention may be caused by many conditions like complicated peptic/duodenal ulcer, gastritis or hiatal hernia. However, these symptoms are uncommonly produced by superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome. SMA syndrome is triggered when there is narrowing of the mesenteric angle and shortening of the aortomesenteric distance. We report a case of 42‑year‑old female who presented with features of gastric outlet obstruction which on further investigation was revealed as SMA syndrome. The aetiology, presentation, diagnosis and management of this unusual condition are discussed.

Keywords: Conventional radiography, Gastrointestinal outlet obstruction, Superior mesenteric artery syndrome, Upper gastrointestinal symptoms