Mesenteric artery ischemia
Definition
Mesenteric artery ischemia is a narrowing or blockage of one or more of the three mesenteric arteries, which are the major arteries supplying the small and large intestines.
Alternative Names
Mesenteric Vascular Disease
Causes
Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the intestine causes mesenteric ischemia. These arteries that supply blood to this area run directly from the aorta, the main artery from the heart.
Mesenteric artery ischemia is often seen in those with hardening of the arteries elsewhere in the body, such as that associated with coronary artery disease or peripheral vascular disease. The condition is more common in smokers and in patients with high cholesterol.
Mesenteric ischemia may also be caused by a blood clot (embolus) that moves through the blood and suddenly blocks one of the mesenteric arteries. The clots usually come from the heart or the aorta. These clots are more commonly seen in patients with heart arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.