%0 Journal Article
%T Extrahepatic aneurysm of the portal venous system and portal hypertension
%A Wilma Debernardi-Venon
%A Davide Stradella
%A Greta Ferruzzi
%A Filippo Marchisio
%J World Journal of Hepatology
%D 2013
%I Baishideng Publishing Group Co. Limited
%R 10.4254/wjh.v5.i3.149
%X Portal venous aneurysm (PVA) is a rare condition characterized by dilatation of the portal venous system. PVA manifestation of symptoms is varied and depends on the aneurysm size, location and related-complications, such as thrombosis. While the majority of reported cases of PVA are attributed to portal hypertension, very little is known about the condition¡¯s pathophysiology and clinical management remains a challenge. Here, we describe a 67-year-old woman who presented with complaint of dyspepsia and without a significant medical history, for whom PVA was incidentally diagnosed. The initial upper abdominal ultrasound revealed marked dilatation of the main portal vein, and subsequent contrast-enhanced computed tomography with angiography revealed a large aneurysm arising from the extrahepatic troncus portion of the portal vein, as well as gastroesophageal varices. A conservative approach using beta-blocker therapy was chosen. The patient was followed-up for 60 mo, during which time the asymptomatic status was unaltered and the PVA remained stable.
%K Portal vein aneurysm
%K Portal hypertension
%K Gastroesophageal varices
%K Hepatic venous pressure gradient
%U http://www.wjgnet.com/1948-5182/full/v5/i3/149.htm