Portal hypertension
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| Portal hypertension | |
|---|---|
| File:Gray591.png | |
| Synonyms | |
| Pronounce | |
| Specialty | Gastroenterology |
| Symptoms | Ascites, esophageal varices, splenomegaly, hepatic encephalopathy |
| Complications | Variceal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome |
| Onset | |
| Duration | |
| Types | |
| Causes | Cirrhosis, portal vein thrombosis, Budd-Chiari syndrome |
| Risks | |
| Diagnosis | Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, endoscopy |
| Differential diagnosis | |
| Prevention | |
| Treatment | Beta blockers, endoscopic band ligation, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) |
| Medication | |
| Prognosis | |
| Frequency | |
| Deaths | |
Portal hypertension is a medical condition characterized by an increase in blood pressure within a system of veins called the portal venous system. Veins coming from the stomach, intestine, spleen, and pancreas merge into the portal vein, which then branches into smaller vessels and travels through the liver.
Causes[edit]
Portal hypertension is often caused by cirrhosis, but it can also be due to a clot or parasitic infection that blocks the portal vein. Other causes include schistosomiasis, congenital disorders, and certain medications.
Symptoms[edit]
Symptoms of portal hypertension may include abdominal pain, enlarged liver, enlarged spleen, ascites, and varices. In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure and death.
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of portal hypertension is typically based on medical history, physical examination, and medical imaging. Blood tests may also be used to assess liver function and to look for signs of infection or clotting disorders.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for portal hypertension aims to reduce the pressure in the portal vein and prevent complications. This may involve medication, endoscopic procedures, surgery, or liver transplantation in severe cases.
See also[edit]
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