Phlebosclerotic colitis: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Phlebosclerotic colitis (PC) is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease. The initial presentation may include non-specific symptoms, such as vomiting, constipation and abdominal pain; however, intestinal stenosis, gangrene and perforation may occur without appropriate management. The present report describes the case of a 56-year-old male with abdominal pain and constipation. Imaging studies revealed thread-like calcifications involving almost the entire colon, which had markedly progressed over a three-year period, and changes consistent with colonic ischemia. Angiography revealed decreased blood flow in the mesenteric veins. The patient underwent emergent subtotal colectomy, and pathological examination revealed gangrene of the colon and calcifications of the mesenteric veins. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful. In conclusion, PC is a potentially life-threatening condition that may be diagnosed by the presence of serpentine calcifications on imaging studies. Management depends on the severity of the disease, ranging from close follow-up to prompt surgical intervention.