Splenic vein thrombosis as a cause of variceal bleeding

Abstract

Splenic vein thrombosis as a cause of variceal bleeding is underdiagnosed. Newer, noninvasive techniques of diagnosis that have been introduced recently appear to be accurate. Isolated gastric varices in the presence of normal liver function and especially in the presence of pancreatic disease should prompt a search for splenic vein thrombosis. Splenectomy is the treatment of choice.