Dunbar's syndrome (Celiac Artery Compression Syndrome): A Case Report

ABSTRACT

Celiac artery compression syndrome is a rare disorder and characterized by postprandial intestinal angina caused by insufficient blood supply to the gastrointestinal organs in symptomatic patients. Celiac artery compression syndrome occurs when the median arcuate ligament of the diaphragm causes extrinsic compression of the celiac trunk. It is characterized by the clinical triad, epigastric pain, weight loss and postprandial emesis. The pathophysiologic origin of these symptoms is not clearly understood. Theories involving either a neurogenic or vascular origin for the clinical features associated with celiac artery compression syndrome have been proposed, but objective evidence to support these theories is lacking. We report a case of a 35-year-old man who presented with a two-week history of postprandial abdominal pain, nausea, some emesis, and weight loss.