PORPHYRIA

Porphyria: In a nutshell

About

Cavernous transformation of the portal vein (also called portal cavernoma) occurs when the native portal vein is thrombosed, which means the formation of a blood clot.

One-third (about 33%) of people with Deep Vein Thrombosis/Pulmonary Embolism will have a recurrence within 10 years. [1]

-Medical Diagnosis is required
-Lab test or imaging are required
-Can be medically treated
-Medium-term, resolves within a few months

The blood clot in your portal vein blocks the blood flow from your intestines to the liver. In serious cases, it can have life-threatening complications.

Symptoms

Many cases of portal vein thrombosis show only a few or no symptoms at all. Symptoms of a less severe clot include the following:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling from excess abdominal fluid
- Fever

In severe cases, high blood pressure can develop within the portal vein. This causes spleen enlargement which reduces the number of white skin cells and makes you prone to infections.
Other symptoms include:
- Spiking Fever
- Chills
- Liver pain
- Vomiting Blood
- Yellowing of the skin
- Varices and gastric bleeding
- Bloody or tarry stools

Treatment

Medication: Treatment involves dissolving the blood clot or preventing growth over a long period of time.
The doctors might prescribe anticoagulants like heparin which act as blood thinners. In severe cases, beta blockers may be recommended. They might also recommend octreotide as it is known to reduce the blood flow to the liver.

At times, banding is also performed to tie off varicose veins and prevent bleeding. Besides, shunt surgery could be another option. It involves inserting a tube between the hepatic vein and portal vein to prevent excess bleeding.

Specialists: Cavernoma is a potentially life-threatening disease which needs timely intervention to be treated effectively. Consult our doctors at mfine for professional advice on all aspects of your healthcare and overall well-being.