Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome in an Adolescent with No Significant Weight Loss: A Case Report

Abstract

This case report discusses a case of superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome in a previously healthy 16-year-old male without significant weight loss or usual risk factors. This patient presented to the emergency department with 4 days of bilious vomiting and epigastric pain that started after ingestion of a large meal and intense exercise. During his illness he was seen at 3 different healthcare facilities before receiving a diagnosis at the fourth visit. SMA syndrome was initially suspected based on the location of obstruction on CT but was not confirmed until upper endoscopy was performed. In puberty, males have an increase in lean body mass with concurrent loss of adipose. With these changes, the angle between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery can narrow with decrease in mesenteric fat.