Portal Vein Thrombosis: A Rare Finding in a Noncirrhotic Patient

Abstract

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare cause of abdominal pain, typically associated with cirrhosis or thrombophilia. A 18-year-old female presented with abdominal pain for 10 weeks. The diagnosis was confirmed with contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) abdomen after an ultrasound showed dilated and obstructed portal vein. This unexpected finding prompted investigation for intrinsic hepatic disease and potential hypercoagulable disorders. Laboratory analysis revealed an elevated serum homocysteine level, an identified risk factor for venous thrombosis. Current literature describes the following factors as indications for anticoagulation: acute thrombus, lack of cavernous transformation, absence of esophageal varices and mesenteric venous thrombosis. PVT is an uncommon cause of abdominal pain, and in the absence of hepatic disease should raise the index of suspicion for an underlying thrombophilia. How to cite this article: Sahoo AK, Rauta S, Mohapatra SC. Portal Vein Thrombosis: A Rare Finding in a Noncirrhotic Patient. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2014;4(1):55-57.