Intestinal varices

Intestinal varices are an abnormal, enlarged vein located in the mucosa or submucosa of the small intestine. They are a rare condition, often associated with portal hypertension, cirrhosis, and other liver diseases.

Causes

The primary cause of intestinal varices is portal hypertension, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the portal vein. This vein carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. Other causes include cirrhosis, a liver disease that causes scarring and poor liver function, and other liver diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of intestinal varices can vary, but may include abdominal pain, bloating, and bleeding. In severe cases, the condition can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of intestinal varices often involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. These may include endoscopy, a procedure that uses a flexible tube with a light and camera to view the digestive tract, and computed tomography (CT) scan, which uses X-rays to create detailed images of the body.

Treatment

Treatment for intestinal varices depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Options may include medication to reduce portal hypertension, endoscopic therapy to stop bleeding, and in severe cases, surgery.

See also

• Portal hypertension
• Cirrhosis
• Endoscopy
• Computed tomography (CT) scan

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