Superior mesenteric artery syndrome in a diabetic patient with acute weight loss

Meng-Chieh Wu; I-Chen Wu; Jeng-Yih Wu; Deng-Chyang Wu; Wen-Ming Wang

doi:10.3748/wjg.15.6004

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome in a diabetic patient with acute weight loss

World J Gastroenterol. 2009 Dec 21;15(47):6004-6. doi: 10.3748/wjg.15.6004.

Authors

Meng-Chieh Wu¹, I-Chen Wu, Jeng-Yih Wu, Deng-Chyang Wu, Wen-Ming Wang

Affiliation

¹ Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan, China.

Abstract

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is an uncommon disease resulting compression of the third portion of the duodenum from the superior mesenteric artery. This disease shares many common manifestations with diabetic gastroparesis, including postprandial fullness, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Therefore, it is often overlooked in diabetic patients. Here, we report a 41-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetic mellitus who developed SMA syndrome due to rapid weight loss. The diagnosis was confirmed by computed tomography and an upper gastrointestinal series. His condition improved after parenteral nutrient, strict sugar control, and gradual weight gain.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; Gastroparesis; Superior mesenteric artery syndrome.

Publication types

Case Reports
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Adult
Diabetes Mellitus / physiopathology*
Humans
Male
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome* / diagnosis
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome* / physiopathology
Weight Loss*