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Hepatic vein obstruction (Budd-Chiari)

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Digestive system
Digestive system
Digestive system organs
Digestive system organs

Alternative Names    Return to top

Budd-Chiari syndrome; Hepatic veno-occlusive disease

Definition    Return to top

Hepatic vein obstruction is a blockage of the hepatic vein, which carries blood away from the liver.

Causes    Return to top

Hepatic vein obstruction prevents blood from flowing out of the liver and back to the heart. This blockage can cause liver damage. Obstruction of this vein can be caused by a lump (tumor) pressing on the vessel, or by a clot (thrombus) in the vessel.

Most often, it is caused by conditions that make blood clots more likely to form, including:

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

One of the signs is swelling of the abdomen from fluid build-up (ascites)

Tests include:

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment varies, depending on the cause of the blockage.

Medical treatments:

Surgical treatments:

Possible Complications    Return to top

Hepatic vein obstruction can get worse and lead to liver failure, which can be life-threatening.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if:

References    Return to top

Zimmerman MA, Cameron AM, Ghobrial RM. Budd-Chiari syndrome. Clin Liver Dis. 2006;10:259-273.

Update Date: 8/22/2008

Updated by: Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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