CONCLUSION
Ultrasonography remains the first line radiological modality for
assessing the abdominal organs in most centers in the world due to its
accessibility and low cost. Available literature suggest ultrasonography
as a reliable modality in diagnosing this pathology; with CT angiogram
and MRI serving as complimentary modalities for confirmation of CTPV.
Medical practitioners must therefore include CTPV as part of their
differential diagnosis in patients who present with upper GI bleeding
symptoms and anemia especially those without prior history or clinical
suspicions of liver cirrhosis, hepatoma or pancreatitis. Duplex
Abdominal ultrasonography must hence be encouraged in the initial
diagnostic workup in such patients.
In view of this, sonographers and radiologists must pay close attention
to the hepatic vasculature especially the segmental portal venous system
when scanning patients presenting with upper GI bleeding and anemia.
This could allow for early detection of CTPV if present since early
diagnosis is crucial in improving patients’ outcomes. Early sonographic
detection of this pathology is also necessary for appropriate timely
intervention which could save the liver from end stage disease.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: The authors extend gratitude to all those who
helped in the preparation of this work.
PATIENT CONSENT FOR PUBLICATION: Obtained
CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The authors declare no conflict of
interest
AUTHORS CONTRIBUTION: JA performed the ultrasound examination,
conceived the idea and involved in the initial preparation of the
manuscript. TKA-B and OO contributed to writing of the manuscript.