Protein-losing enteropathy as a complication of spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Protein-losing enteropathy and spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection are both rare clinically. Protein-losing enteropathy due to superior mesenteric artery dissection is extremely rare. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 46-year-old male with acute abdominal pain and hematochezia was diagnosed with a complete occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery because of dissection. He suffered from diarrhea and hypoproteinemia after an emergency thromboendarterectomy. DIAGNOSES: Based on laboratory tests and capsule endoscopy inspection, a diagnosis of protein-losing enteropathy was made. INTERVENTIONS: Endovascular treatment was provided. OUTCOMES: After stent placement, he quickly recovered without a recurrence of symptoms. CONCLUSION: Protein-losing enteropathy is a serious complication of an isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection. Restoring the patency of the superior mesenteric artery is keyed for the treatment of this complication.