Inferior mesenteric thrombophlebitis secondary to sigmoid diverticulitis

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Severe left iliac fossa pain ? diverticulitis

Patient Data

Age: 55
Gender: Male

Filling defect consistent with clot in the IMV associated with surrounding inflammation of fat up to the splenic vein.  Substantial sigmoid diverticular disease with inflammation in the adjacent sigmoid mesocolon indicative of diverticultis.

Case Discussion

Inflammation in the wall of the sigmoid colon extending into the draining veins producing thrombophlebitis. This is a rare but recognized complication of diverticultis that can go onto portal vein thrombosis and liver abscesses (i.e. portal pyaemia) if not treated.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.