A rare cause of abdominal pain in pregnancy - mesenteric artery thrombosis and miscarriage in a 34-year-old patient

Abstract

BackgroundMesenteric arterial thrombosis is an extremely rare thrombotic event, especially during pregnancy, that can cause rapid fatal consequences unless the patient receives early definitive treatment.Case presentationWe report the case of a 34-year-old female presenting in her seventh week of gestation with severe abdominal pain who was promptly diagnosed with mesenteric artery occlusion amidst incipient miscarriage. The patient underwent a successful mesentery artery embolectomy, recovered and was later diagnosed with elevated factor VIII activity.ConclusionThe diagnosis of mesenteric ischemia should be considered in pregnant women presenting with severe abdominal pain and any prior predisposing factors. Our case highlights the pivotal role of the emergency physician in maintaining a high index of suspicion coupled with timely and determined action. The prognosis of this high mortality condition depends on prompt diagnosis, early definite management and successful multidisciplinary cooperation.