Small bowel obstruction has many etiologies, but superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is among the rarest causes. It happens when the third part of the duodenum is compressed between the superior mesenteric artery and the abdominal aorta, preventing gastric content from passing through the small intestine. SMAS is a diagnosis of exclusion because it is atypical and needs a high index of suspicion. There is frequently a delay in diagnosis, leading to morbidity and mortality. We present a case of a young female who presented with symptoms of episodic abdominal pain and obstruction. A computed tomography scan revealed SMAS. She was admitted and treated conservatively with total parenteral nutrition for one week and intravenous fluids, and eventually, her bowel opened, and the condition resolved.
Keywords: abdomen pain; acute abdomen; intestinal obstruction; superior mesenteric artery; vomiting; weight-loss.
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