Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: Delayed Diagnosis of a Rare Clinical Entity With a Common Clinical Presentation

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome, also known as Wilkie’s syndrome, is an uncommon disorder that involves a set of symptoms that primarily includes postprandial pain at times associated with intestinal obstruction. Although a rare disease in the general population, SMA syndrome has a high probability of occurrence in patients who are severely malnourished or have certain debilitating conditions leading to a loss of retroperitoneal fat. Here, we present the case of a 16-year-old male with a one-year history of postprandial abdominal pain associated with nausea, multiple episodes of vomiting, and abdominal distension. Amid a delayed diagnosis and multiple hospital visits, the patient’s condition further deteriorated. Thereafter, computed tomography of the abdomen confirmed this rare diagnosis. Because the patient could not be further managed conservatively, laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy was planned and done. This case report highlights the various challenges in diagnosing this disease and highlights the importance of an early diagnosis so that patients can be managed effectively and timely.