Sirenomelia, the Mermaid syndrome: a case report

Sirenomelia, also known as mermaid syndrome, is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by a single lower extremity which is associated with abnormalities in other organ systems, commonly affecting the gastrointestinal and the urogenital systems. It is sporadic with no increased risk in subsequent pregnancies. In almost all the cases of sirenomelia, a single umbilical artery (SUA) is present which arises from the abdominal aorta. The exact etiology of sirenomelia is unknown. Sirenomelia can be confidently diagnosed in the 1st trimester while the diagnosis in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters is difficult due to the lack of amniotic fluid in the later gestation. Antenatal diagnosis of this universally lethal condition is desirable so that possible termination of pregnancy can be offered at the earliest.

Venous Thrombosis Complicating Acute Pancreatitis.

Most cases of pancreatitis are mild and self limited. On the other hand, approximately one quarter of patients with pancreatitis may develop vascular complications. Pancreatitis in combination with vascular complications is dangerous and potentially lethal. The survival of patients with pancreatitis and vascular complications depends on the early diagnosis of these complications. We report a case of an elderly male patient who had recurrent pancreatitis. On radiological imaging, patient was found have portal vein, splenic vein and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis. Patient recovered after emergent and timely management. The article focuses on the aspects of etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of acute pancreatitis with venous thrombosis.