Chest Pain Redefined: Atypical Presentation of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome

Cureus. 2024 Mar 24;16(3):e56834. doi: 10.7759/cureus.56834. eCollection 2024 Mar.

Abstract

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction characterized by duodenal compression due to the narrowing of the SMA-aorta angle. We present a case of a 43-year-old male with postprandial chest pain, severe weight loss, and a narrowed aortomesenteric angle evident on computed tomography. Conservative management, including hydration, positioning, and weight gain, was initiated, leading to symptom resolution. SMA syndrome diagnosis requires clinical suspicion and radiological confirmation. Understanding this syndrome's varied presentations, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic approaches is crucial for prompt management, especially when atypical symptoms like chest pain manifest, as seen in our case.

Keywords: aortomesenteric angle; aortomesenteric distance; ct; sma; weight loss.

Publication types

  • Case Reports