Imaging findings in diagnosis of mesenteric ischemia: how can we be sure?

Abstract

Mesenteric ischemia (MI) remains a complex disease entity characterized by acute or chronic perfusion abnormality to the GI tract. Because it presents with nonspecific symptoms and laboratory findings, MI remains a clinical diagnostic challenge. Given that MI is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, early diagnosis remains critical for appropriate management and best clinical outcome. Over the past decade, significant technical improvements have been seen in computed tomography and MRI, particularly in their use for noninvasive angiographic imaging. These techniques are now the preferred test for initial evaluation of suspected MI. This article focuses on computed tomography and MRI features of MI in both the acute and chronic clinical settings, with a review of anatomy, etiopathogenesis and clinical features.