hepatic and biliary disorders
Portal Vein Thrombosis
Key Points
Causes of and risk factors for portal vein thrombosis include umbilical cord infection (in neonates), appendicitis (in children), and hypercoagulability states (in adults). Suspect portal vein thrombosis if patients have manifestations of portal hypertension in the absence of cirrhosis or if they have mild, nonspecific liver abnormalities plus risk factors. Confirm the diagnosis using Doppler ultrasonography or, if results are inconclusive, MRI or CT with contrast. Treat the cause of portal vein thrombosis and the complications of portal hypertension. 