Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis Complicated with Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria: A Case Report

This report presents a unique case of acute necrotizing pancreatitis(ANP) concomitant with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria(PNH), a combination that has not been documented in existing literature. The impact of PNH on ANP and its treatment remains uncertain due to the lack of consensus. The case described herein involves a patient who exhibited both ANP and PNH, subsequently experiencing splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), resulting in substantial intra-abdominal and gastrointestinal hemorrhaging. We attempted to analyze the role of PNH in the formation of SVT in ANP and propose some new insights and hypotheses for the treatment of such patients.

Predictors of clinical outcome in myeloproliferative neoplasm, unclassifiable: A Bone Marrow Pathology Group study

OBJECTIVES

Myeloproliferative neoplasm, unclassifiable (MPN-U, revised to MPN, not otherwise specified in the fifth edition of the World Health Organization classification) is a heterogeneous category of primary marrow disorders with clinical, morphologic, and/or molecular features that preclude classification as a more specific MPN subtype due to stage at diagnosis, overlapping features between MPN subtypes, or the presence of coexisting disorders. Compared with other MPN subtypes, the contribution of the mutational landscape in MPN-U in conjunction with other clinical and morphologic biomarkers to prognosis has been less well investigated.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter, retrospective study of MPN-U (94 cases) to better define the clinicopathologic features, genetic landscape, and clinical outcomes, including subgroups of early-stage, advanced-stage, and coexisting disorders. The Dynamic International Prognostic Scoring System (DIPSS) plus scoring system was applied to assess its relevance to MPN-U prognosis.

RESULTS

Multivariate analysis demonstrated bone marrow blast count and DIPSS plus score as statistically significant in predicting overall survival. Univariate analysis identified additional potential poor prognostic markers, including abnormal karyotype and absence of JAK2 mutation. Secondary mutations were frequent in the subset analyzed by next-generation sequencing (26/37 cases, 70.3%) with a borderline association between high molecular risk mutations and overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, as one of the largest of MPN-U studies incorporating both clinicopathologic and molecular data, moves toward identification of biomarkers that better predict prognosis in this heterogeneous category.

ADAMTS13, von Willebrand Factor, Platelet Microparticles, Factor VIII, and Impact of Somatic Mutations in the Pathogenesis of Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis Associated with BCR-ABL-Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are often associated with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT). Not all the factors involved in the thrombotic tendency are currently known.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate a possible association between ADAMTS13, von Willebrand factor (VWF), platelet microvesicles (MV), and factor VIII activity (FVIII:C) with thrombotic events in MPN patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 36 consecutive MPN patients with SVT were enrolled. The MPNs were diagnosed based on clinical characteristics and one or more gene mutations among JAK-2, CALR, and MPL. As controls, 50 randomly selected patients with MPN without thrombosis, 50 patients with deep vein thrombosis without MPNs, and 50 healthy blood donors were evaluated. Complete blood count, ADAMTS13, VWF, MV, and FVIII:C in plasma were measured in all the subjects.

RESULTS

The JAK-2 mutation was found in 94% of the patients with SVT, but none were triple-negative for genetic mutations (JAK2 V617F, CALR, MPL, and exon 12). Compared to the normal subjects, in all the MPN patients (with or without SVT), the levels of ADAMTS13 were found to be significantly lower (p < 0.001) and the MV concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.001). Among the MPN patients, the VWF and FVIII:C levels were significantly higher in the patients with SVT than those without thrombosis (p = 0.007 and p = 0.04, respectively). Splenomegaly was present in 78% of MPN patients with SVT and in 30% of those without SVT (p < 0.001). The ADAMTS13/VWF ratio was reduced in all the patients, but not in the healthy blood donors (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The significant increase in circulating MV, VWF, and FVIII:C in the MPN patients and in the patients with thrombosis supports the role of endothelium damage in promoting thrombotic events. In particular, a significant increase in VWF and FVIII:C levels was found in the MPN patients with SVT.

Exploring the Molecular Aspects of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Associated with Unusual Site Vein Thrombosis: Review of the Literature and Latest Insights

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are the leading causes of unusual site thrombosis, affecting nearly 40% of individuals with conditions like Budd-Chiari syndrome or portal vein thrombosis. Diagnosing MPNs in these cases is challenging because common indicators, such as spleen enlargement and elevated blood cell counts, can be obscured by portal hypertension or bleeding issues. Recent advancements in diagnostic tools have enhanced the accuracy of MPN diagnosis and classification. While bone marrow biopsies remain significant diagnostic criteria, molecular markers now play a pivotal role in both diagnosis and prognosis assessment. Hence, it is essential to initiate the diagnostic process for splanchnic vein thrombosis with a JAK2 V617F mutation screening, but a comprehensive approach is necessary. A multidisciplinary strategy is vital to accurately determine the specific subtype of MPNs, recommend additional tests, and propose the most effective treatment plan. Establishing specialized care pathways for patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis and underlying MPNs is crucial to tailor management approaches that reduce the risk of hematological outcomes and hepatic complications.

Abdominal venous thromboses: detection of the JAK2 p.V617F mutation by next-generation ultradeep sequencing-A prevalence study of patients in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania (2017-2021)

Background

Abdominal venous thromboses are rare thrombotic events with heterogeneous etiologies. They are related to myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) in some patients and can occur as first signs of the disease. MPNs are characterized by mutations in the genes of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene (MPL), and calreticulin (CALR).

Methods

Within the prospective trial "Prevalence of JAK2 mutations in patients with abdominal venous thromboses" (JAK2 MV study; German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00026943), the peripheral blood of patients with abdominal venous thromboses in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, a federal state located in north-east Germany, was analyzed by next-generation ultradeep sequencing for MPN-associated mutations. Clinical characteristics and blood cell counts were also of interest. The primary endpoint was the detection of the mutation JAK2 p.V617F. Secondary endpoints were the detection of other acquired variants of JAK2, as well as MPL and CALR.

Results

A total of 68 patients with abdominal venous thromboses were included from February 2017 to January 2021, with splanchnic veins affected in 65 patients. The mutation JAK2 p.V617F was present in 13 patients (19%), with four patients showing low variant allele frequencies (VAF 0.1% to 1.9%). The time interval from the thrombotic event to analysis was longer for patients with the mutation. The mutation MPL p.W515R was detected in three cases, all of them with low VAF. One patient among them had a concurrent mutation of JAK2 p.V617F. The mutations CALR type I or type II were not found.

Discussion

By analyzing peripheral blood for the mutation JAK2 p.V617F, an important cause of these rare thrombotic events can be identified. The development of a diagnostic workup with next-generation ultradeep sequencing for the analysis of the JAK2 p.V617F mutation and further mutations has the potential to better understand the etiology of abdominal venous thromboses in individual patients in regional clinical care, as abdominal venous thromboses are diagnosed by various medical disciplines.

Do we need more guidance on thrombophilia testing? Challenges and special considerations

INTRODUCTION

Thrombophilia testing (TT) is a laboratory procedure designed to detect the risk factors involved in the pathogenesis of vascular occlusions. The role of TT is also controversial because it has a limited impact on the choice and duration of antithrombotic treatments.

AREAS COVERED

We reviewed, by examining MEDLINE up to October 2023. Accepted and not accepted thrombophilia markers are discussed along with the appropriateness or not of prescribing TT in several conditions such as: provoked and unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE), women who are planning a pregnancy whose relatives had VTE or have a hereditary thrombophilia, before assumption of estro-progestins, after multiple pregnant loss, arterial thrombosis, retinal vein occlusion, and splanchnic vein thrombosis.

EXPERT OPINION

TT is not essential in the management of VTE, but it may be useful for limiting adverse events in case of thrombophilia. We expose our criticism of items afforded by other guidelines by presenting our opinion based on both the scientific evidence and clinical practice. We also deal with common mistakes in prescribing and interpretations of TT hoping to purpose an educational approach on this topic. Finally, we emphasize the creation of the expert in hemostasis and thrombosis who should be present in every hospital.

Therapeutic anticoagulation in patients with acute pancreatitis and splanchnic vein thrombosis: a best evidence topic

A best evidence topic in general surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The clinical question addressed was: in adult patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis in acute pancreatitis, would administration of therapeutic anticoagulation be advisable considering the rates of vessel recanalization and bleeding complications? Four hundred twenty-four papers were found on Ovid Embase and Medline whilst 222 were found on PubMed using the reported literature search. From these, five articles represented the best evidence to the clinical question. The authors, publication dates, countries, patient groups, study outcomes, and results of these papers were tabulated. There were three systematic reviews with meta-analyses, one systematic review without meta-analysis and one randomized, retrospective study. The authors conclude that among patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis in the context of acute pancreatitis, therapeutic anticoagulation improved the rates of recanalization without increasing the risk of bleeding complications. However, there remains a need for randomized studies to address this clinical dilemma to further increase the quality of available evidence.

A narrative review of acute pancreatitis-induced splanchnic vein thrombosis: from pathogenesis to clinical management

Acute pancreatitis-induced splanchnic vein thrombosis (APISVT) is an important sequela complication of acute pancreatitis, which may cause poor prognosis, such as severe gastrointestinal hemorrhage, bowel ischemic necrosis and liver failure. However, its mechanism remains uncertain, and there is not a general consensus on the management. In this study, we reviewed the latest academic publications in APISVT, and discussed its pathogenesis, clinical presentation, adverse outcome and treatment, especially focused on the role of anticoagulant therapy. It was indicated that anticoagulation therapy can significantly elevate thrombus recanalization and reduce the incidence of complications and mortality with no increase of bleeding. Actually, as most of these studies were retrospective analyses and prospective studies included small samples, the conclusion remains controversial. Thus, well-designed randomized controlled trials are urged to verify the effectiveness and safety of anticoagulation therapy for APISVT.

Splanchnic vein thrombosis in acute pancreatitis: a review of treatment indications, methods, and outcomes in a single institution

BACKGROUND

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a well-recognized complication of acute pancreatitis. The question of whether or not to treat SVT with systemic therapeutic anticoagulation (STA) remains to be seen. The universal use of anticoagulation may lead to an increased risk of bleeding complications associated with acute pancreatitis. Literature on this subject is sparse and there is no clear guideline on how to treat SVT. Our research demonstrates local practice where therapeutic anticoagulation in SVT varies.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients presenting with acute pancreatitis admitted over a five-year period to a single tertiary hospital with splanchnic vein thrombosis was performed.

RESULTS

Of the 1408 patients admitted with acute pancreatitis, 42 were diagnosed with splanchnic vein thrombosis, with a male dominance of 34 (81%). A total of 25 patients received anticoagulation. The use of anticoagulation was dependent on the location of the thrombus, P < 0.01. Anticoagulation use was most common in cases of combination mesenteric, splenic, and portal vein thrombus (100%), isolated mesenteric vein (100%), isolated portal vein (89%), combination portal and splenic vein (87%), and combination mesenteric and splenic vein (75%). The rate of anticoagulation use was lowest in isolated splenic vein thrombus (23%).

CONCLUSION

The early commencement of STA in patients with acute pancreatitis and triple-vessel SVT or with portal vein involvement is supported by our data. Isolated splenic vein thrombus does not require systemic therapy. Further research is needed to establish a clear clinical guideline.

Predictive value of D-dimer and fibrinogen degradation product for splanchnic vein thrombosis in patients with severe acute pancreatitis: a single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Early diagnosis of splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) after severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) remains difficult because of its insidious onset. Common serum markers for thrombosis such as D-dimer (D-D) have lost their diagnostic value due to their elevation in non-thrombotic patients with SAP. The aim of this study is to predict SVT after SAP using common serum indicators of thrombosis by establishing a new cut-off value.

METHODS

177 SAP patients were included in a retrospective cohort study from September 2019 to September 2021. Patient demographics, dynamic changes of coagulation and fibrinolysis indicators were collected. Univariate analyses and binary logistic regression analyses were applied to assess potential risk factors for the development of SVT in SAP patients. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated to assess the predictive value of independent risk factors. Moreover, clinical complications and outcomes were compared between two groups.

RESULTS

Among 177 SAP patients, 32 (18.1%) developed SVT. The most common cause of SAP was biliary (49.8%), followed by hypertriglyceridemia (21.5%). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that D-D (OR, 1.135; 95%CI, 1.043-1.236; p = 0.003) and fibrinogen degradation product (FDP) (OR, 1.037; 95%CI, 1.015-1.060; p = 0.001) were independent risk factors for SVT development in patients with SAP. The area under ROC curve for D-D was 0.891 (p = 0.003, sensitivity= 95.3%, specificity = 74.1%) at a cut-off value of 6.475, and the area under ROC curve for FDP was 0.858 (p = 0.001, sensitivity = 89.4%, specificity = 72.4%) at a cut-off value of 23.155.

CONCLUSION

D-D and FDP are significant independent risk factors with high predictive value for SVT in patients with SAP.

Red blood cell transfusion is associated with an increased risk of splanchnic vein thrombosis in patients with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Haemorrhage and coagulation disorders are common complications in cirrhotic patients, which cause blood products transfusion, and mounting evidence suggested that red blood cells (RBCs) were associated with pathologic thrombosis and RBC transfusion increased the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

AIMS

The aim of the study was to investigate the association of RBC transfusion with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) in cirrhotic patients.

MATERIALS & METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients with cirrhosis admitted in the Hunan Provincial People's Hospital between January 2010 and September 2020. Demographic data, the development of SVT, blood transfusion product type and RBC transfusion dose were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analyses and propensity matching analysis (PSM) were performed to identify the association between RBC transfusion and development of SVT.

RESULTS

A total of 4479 patients with cirrhosis were enrolled in the study. SVT occurred in 48 (12.4%) cirrhotic patients in RBC transfusion group, and 233 (5.7%) cirrhotic patients in non-RBC transfusion group. RBC transfusion was significantly associated with an increased risk of SVT (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.345, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.686-3.262, p < 0.001). Notably, this association remained robust after PSM, and the volume of RBC transfusion was associated with SVT in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that RBC transfusion was associated with an increased risk of SVT in cirrhotic patients. High quality clinical study will be needed to further validate the association between RBC transfusion and SVT.

Shedding Light on the Pathogenesis of Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis

Splanchnic vein thrombosis is a rare but potentially life-threatening manifestation of venous thromboembolism, with challenging implications both at the pathological and therapeutic level. It is frequently associated with liver cirrhosis, but it could also be provoked by myeloproliferative disorders, cancer of various gastroenterological origin, abdominal infections and thrombophilia. A portion of splanchnic vein thrombosis is still classified as idiopathic. Here, we review the mechanisms of splanchnic vein thrombosis, including new insights on the role of clonal hematopoiesis in idiopathic SVT pathogenesis, with important implications from the therapeutic standpoint.

Case report: Metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour associated with portal vein thrombosis; successful management with subsequent pregnancies

BACKGROUND

Splanchnic vein thrombosis due to co-existing metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (pNET) and JAK2V617F mutation is a rare condition.

CASE REPORT

Here we present a case of a young woman with complete remission of a non-functioning grade 2 pNET with unresectable liver metastases, coexisting with JAK2V617F mutation. Splenectomy and distal pancreatectomy were performed. Neither surgical removal, nor radiofrequency ablation of the liver metastases was possible. Therefore, somatostatin analogue (SSA) and enoxaparine were started. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) was given in 3 cycles 6-8 weeks apart. Genetic testing revealed no multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1) gene mutations. After shared decision making with the patient, she gave birth to two healthy children, currently 2 and 4 years old. On pregnancy confirmation, SSA treatment was interrupted and resumed after each delivery. Ten years after the diagnosis of pNET, no tumour is detectable by MRI or somatostatin receptor scintigraphy. PRRT followed by continuous SSA therapy, interrupted only during pregnancies, resulted in complete remission and enabled the patient to complete two successful pregnancies.

Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia with atypical vein thrombosis: Implications for clinical practice

OBJECTIVES

Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a new and rare syndrome resulting from the largest vaccination campaign against SARS-CoV-2 in the history of mankind. The aim of this review is to clarify underlying mechanisms, pathology, diagnosis, and therapy, with the related clinical implications.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature review in order to collect the clinical and treatment data about patients suffering from VITT. PubMed, Ovid Medline, Ovid EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science were screened regarding patients who developed VITT. Last search was launched on June 30^th 2021.

RESULTS

Abdominal and/or neurological symptoms develop between 5 and 20 days after vaccine administration and do not involve the lower extremities. VITT is suspected if the platelet count is lower than 100.000/mm³ and D-dimer is higher than the age-adjusted range. Medical treatment is mainly based on intravenous immunoglobulins, corticosteroids, and anticoagulant drugs with a short plasma half-life, but the complete avoidance of low molecular weight heparin is recommended. Endovascular treatment and/or decompressive craniectomy might be an option in a minority of cases.

CONCLUSION

Due to widespread vaccination concerns, the vascular specialist and phlebologist are increasingly consulted to prevent or diagnose VITT. The latter has peculiar and completely different localizations, symptoms, and treatment compared to the common pictures of venous thrombosis.

Use of therapeutic anticoagulation in splanchnic vein thrombosis associated with acute pancreatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Splanchnic vein thrombosis is a well-recognized local vascular complication of acute pancreatitis (AP), estimated to occur in approximately 15% of patients. While splanchnic vein recanalization occurs spontaneously in approximately one third of patients, severe complications such as bowel ischemia and liver failure have also been reported. At present, there is no consensus on whether patients presenting with AP-associated splanchnic vein thrombosis should receive therapeutic anticoagulation.

Methods

We searched multiple databases from inception through December 2020 to collect studies that compared the clinical outcomes of patients with AP and splanchnic vein thrombosis who received therapeutic anticoagulation (AC group) with those who did not (N-AC group). A meta-analysis was performed to calculate the relative risk (RR) of vessel recanalization, bleeding complications, collateral formation and death in the 2 groups.

Results

Seven studies with 8353 patients, 339 of whom had splanchnic vein thrombosis, were included in the final analysis. A total of 154 patients (45.4%) had acute severe pancreatitis. A significantly higher proportion of patients had vessel recanalization in the AC group: RR 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.17-2.27; I²=0%; P=0.004. There was no difference between the 2 groups in the RR of bleeding complications, collateral formation and death.

Conclusions

Our analysis demonstrated that, among patients with AP-associated splanchnic vein thrombosis, therapeutic anticoagulation resulted in recanalization of the involved vessels without significantly increasing the risk of bleeding complications. There was no difference in the RR of death or the rates of collateral vessel formation during the follow up.

Anticoagulation and Vessel Recanalization in Cirrhotic Patients with Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: A Multidisciplinary "Real Life" Experience

Background and Aim

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a potentially life-threatening complication of liver cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a multi-disciplinary approach and early anticoagulation therapy (AT) on bleeding/thrombotic events, recanalization rates and outcome of cirrhotic patients with SVT.

Methods

This is a single-center, registry-based cohort study. Over 17 years, 149 SVT patients were enrolled and prospectively evaluated. Regarding cirrhotic-SVT, a pre-specified algorithm, guiding initial posology of AT and follow-up visits schedule, was performed. Major bleeding (MB), thrombotic events, functional liver scores and all cause-mortality were investigated. Efficacy of AT was evaluated by radiological imaging.

Results

In cirrhotic-SVT, the incidence rate of MB was 8.4 per 100 patient-year (95% CI, 3.83–15.97), while the incidence rate of thrombosis was 5.6 per 100 patient-year (95% CI, 2.05–12.2). In incidental SVT treated with AT, MB incidence was 6.5 per 100 patient-year (95% CI: 2.8–12.82), while in symptomatic SVT was 2.2 per 100 patient-year (95% CI: 0.25–8.02). All thrombotic recurrences occurred in incidental SVT (7.7 per 100 patient-years; 95% CI, 3.71–14.26). Overall survival was significantly higher in patients who had at least a partial recanalization (p < 0.01) and partial/total recanalization was independently associated with improved MELD score at multivariate analysis (HR 2.62, 95% CI 1.1–6.47, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

In cirrhotic SVT patients, partial or total resolution of thrombosis ameliorates liver function and is associated with higher overall survival. A multidisciplinary approach together with radiological follow-up at pre-fixed time improves patient selection and monitoring.

Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) - a novel clinico-pathological entity with heterogeneous clinical presentations

Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a novel entity that emerged in March 2021 following reports of unusual thrombosis after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19, (AstraZeneca) vaccination. Following the recognition of this syndrome, multiple consensus guidelines have been released to risk stratify patients presenting with possible symptoms after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccination. All guidelines rapidly identify VITT in patients with the complete triad of thrombocytopenia, thrombosis and elevated D‐dimers after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccination. However, with earlier recognition of the associated symptoms, the clinical manifestations are likely to be more heterogeneous and represent an evolving spectrum of disease. In this setting, current guidelines may lack the sensitivity to detect early cases of VITT and risk missed or delayed diagnoses. The broad clinical phenotype and challenges associated with diagnosis of VITT are highlighted in our present case series of four patients with confirmed VITT. Dependent on the guidance used, each patient could have been classified as a low probability of VITT at presentation. The present study highlights the issues associated with the recognition of VITT, the limitations of current guidance and the need for heightened clinical vigilance as our understanding of the pathophysiology of this novel condition evolves.

Factors associated with the severity of hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis

Hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis (HTGP) was associated with increased risk of local complications, recurrent acute pancreatitis (AP), the frequency of other complications, and its high mortality as compared to other causes. Determining the factors associated with the severity of HTGP was necessary and important in the management of patients with AP.This study aims to examine the clinical and biochemical characteristics of HTGP patients, and to determine the factors associated with the severity of HTGP according to the revised Atlanta classification.This retrospective and prospective study enrolled 157 HTGP patients from January 2016 to May 2019 at Cho Ray Hospital who had serum TG levels measured within the first 48 hours of admittance with a TG concentration ≥ 1000 mg/dL and excluded other causes. The clinical features and outcomes of patients with HTGP were determined in terms of demographics, clinical symptoms, laboratory data, system complications, local complications, disease severity, and length of hospital stay. The primary outcome was the severity of HTGP as based according to the revised Atlanta classification. We evaluated the relationship between general information, clinical factors and laboratory data in the study population.There were 157 HTGP patients participated in this study. Patients with HTGP had evidence of obese or overweight range (61.2%), history of diabetes mellitus (32.5%) or undiagnosed diabetes (28.0%), history of AP (35.7%), alcohol use (23.6%), hypertension (15.9%), dyslipidemia (13.4%). The patients had typical symptoms of AP, including pancreatic abdominal pain (upper abdominal pain) (93%), nausea/vomiting (80.9%), fever (59.2%), distension abdomen (84.7%), and resistance of abdominal wall (24.8%). The severity of HTGP was significantly associated with fever, altered mental status, rapid pulse, and hypotension (P < .05). Patients with severe HTGP had significantly more pancreatic necrosis, higher values of Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, longer prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time on admission and higher CRP48 than not severe HTGP (P < .05).The severity of HTGP was significantly related to clinical factors including fever, altered mental status, rapid pulse, hypotension, and pancreatic necrosis. The value of Blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, prothrombin time, and activated partial thromboplastin time at admission is higher and longer in the severe AP group with P < .05.

The Natural History, Treatments, and Outcomes of Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a poorly described complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We sought to better characterize presentations, compare treatments, and assess outcomes in IBD-related PVT.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective investigation of IBD-related PVT at our institution. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios across treatments.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients with IBD-related PVT (26 with Crohn disease, 37 with ulcerative colitis) were followed for a median 21 months (interquartile ratio [IQR] = 9-52). Major risk factors included intra-abdominal surgery (60%), IBD flare (33%), and intra-abdominal infection (13%). Primary hematologic thrombophilias were rare and did not impact management. Presentations were generally nonspecific, and diagnosis was incidental. Ninety-two percent of patients (58/63) received anticoagulation (AC), including 23 who received direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), 22 who received warfarin, and 13 who received enoxaparin. All anticoagulated patients started AC within 3 days of diagnosis. Complete radiographic resolution (CRR) of PVT occurred in 71% of patients. We found that DOACs were associated with higher CRR rates (22/23; 96%) relative to warfarin (12/22; 55%): the hazard ratio of DOACs to warfarin was 4.04 (1.83-8.93; P = 0.0006)). Patients receiving DOACs required shorter courses of AC (median 3.9 months; IQR = 2.7-6.1) than those receiving warfarin (median 8.5 months; IQR = 3.9-NA; P = 0.0190). Incidence of gut ischemia (n = 3), symptomatic portal hypertension (n = 3), major bleeding (n = 4), and death (n = 2) were rare, and no patients receiving DOACs experienced these adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that early and aggressive use of AC can lead to excellent outcomes in IBD-associated PVT and that DOACs are associated with particularly favorable outcomes in this setting.

Association of Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis on Survival: 15-Year Institutional Experience With 1561 Cases

Background Previous studies regarding survival in patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) are limited. This study measured overall survival in a large cohort of SVTs through linkage to population-based data. Methods and Results Using a previously derived text-search algorithm, we screened the reports of all abdominal ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography studies at The Ottawa Hospital over 14 years. Screen-positive reports were manually reviewed by at least 2 authors to identify definite SVT cases by consensus. Images of uncertain studies were independently reviewed by 2 radiologists. One thousand five hundred sixty-one adults with SVT (annual incidence ranging from 2.8 to 5.9 cases/10 000 patients) were linked with population-based data sets to measure the presence of concomitant cancer and survival status. Thrombosis involved multiple veins in 314 patients (20.1%), most commonly the portal vein (n=1410, 90.3%). Compared with an age-sex-year matched population, patients with SVT had significantly reduced survival in particular with local cancer (adjusted relative excess risk for recent cases 12.0 [95% CI, 9.8-14.6] and for remote cases 9.7 [7.7-12.2]), distant cancer (relative excess risk for recent cases 5.7 [4.5-7.3] and for remote cases 5.4 [4.4-6.6]), cirrhosis (relative excess risk 8.2 [5.3-12.7]), and previous venous thromboembolism (relative excess risk 3.8 [2.4-6.0]). One hundred fifty (23.9%) of patients >65 years of age were anticoagulated within 1 month of diagnosis. Conclusions SVT is more common than expected. Most patients have cancer and the portal vein is by far the most common vein involved. Compared with the general population, patients with SVT had significantly reduced survival, particularly in patients with concomitant cancer, cirrhosis, and previous venous thromboembolic disease. Most elderly patients did not receive anticoagulant therapy.

Prevalence of prothrombotic factors in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome or non-cirrhotic nonmalignant portal vein thrombosis: A hospital-based observational study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Comprehensive investigations on the prothrombotic factors of splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), including Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) and non-cirrhotic nonmalignant portal vein thrombosis (PVT), in Eastern patients are scarce.

METHODS

Between March 2012 and July 2017, 812 consecutive patients, including 418 BCS and 394 non-cirrhotic nonmalignant PVT patients, were admitted to Xijing Hospital (a Chinese tertiary academic hospital) and screened for prothrombotic factors. Odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and P-trends were calculated by using conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) was only 6.3% among BCS patients but 28.3% among PVT patients. Notably, the presence of MPNs was associated with a higher risk of hepatic vein-type BCS (OR 9.9, 95% CI 3.6-26.7, P-trend < 0.001) and extensive thrombosis in PVT (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.9-8.9, P-trend < 0.001). Calreticulin mutations existed in 2.7% of SVT patients. Furthermore, the prevalence of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency in BCS patients was 7.3% and 22.5%, respectively, similar to that in patients with PVT (7.4% and 25.7%). In addition, factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin G20210A mutation, and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria were identified in < 1% of both BCS and PVT patients.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant positive association between MPNs and hepatic vein-type BCS or non-cirrhotic nonmalignant PVT with extensive thrombosis. Additionally, calreticulin mutations should be tested in JAK2^V617F -negative SVT patients in China. However, screening for factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin G20210A mutation, and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria may be unnecessary.

Cerebral and Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: Advances, Challenges, and Unanswered Questions

Cerebral vein thrombosis (CVT) and splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) are two manifestations of venous thromboembolism (VTE) at unusual sites. They have an incidence at least 25-50 times lower than usual site VTE, but represent true clinical challenges. Recent evidence on the epidemiology, risk factors, prognosis, and treatment of CVT and SVT has been published in the last two decades, thus contributing to a better understanding of these diseases. The improvement in imaging techniques and a higher degree of clinical suspicion may have led to the observed increased frequency, whereas a better knowledge of provoking mechanisms could have contributed to reducing the proportion of events classified as unprovoked or idiopathic (13%-21% of CVT, 15%-27% of SVT). Few small randomized clinical trials and a number of observational studies, although hampered by heterogeneous therapeutic approaches, shed light on the safety and effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy in these populations. However, there are still some grey areas that warrant future research. In this narrative review, we discuss recent advances and therapeutic challenges in CVT and SVT.

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: Current Perspectives

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) including portal, mesenteric, splenic vein thrombosis and the Budd-Chiari syndrome, is a manifestation of unusual site venous thromboembolism. SVT presents with a lower incidence than deep vein thrombosis of the lower limbs and pulmonary embolism, with portal vein thrombosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome being respectively the most and the least common presentations of SVT. SVT is classified as provoked if secondary to a local or systemic risk factor, or unprovoked if the causative trigger cannot be identified. Diagnostic evaluation is often affected by the lack of specificity of clinical manifestations: the presence of one or more risk factors in a patient with a high clinical suspicion may suggest the execution of diagnostic tests. Doppler ultrasonography represents the first line diagnostic tool because of its accuracy and wide availability. Further investigations, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiography, should be executed in case of suspected thrombosis of the mesenteric veins, suspicion of SVT-related complications, or to complete information after Doppler ultrasonography. Once SVT diagnosis is established, a careful patient evaluation should be performed in order to assess the risks and benefits of the anticoagulant therapy and to drive the optimal treatment intensity. Due to the low quality and large heterogeneity of published data, guidance documents and expert opinion could direct therapeutic decision, suggesting which patients to treat, which anticoagulant to use and the duration of treatment.

Current approaches to challenging scenarios in myeloproliferative neoplasms

INTRODUCTION

The Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) including polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis are clonal hematological malignancies that originate at the level of the hematopoietic stem cell, and are characterized by excessive proliferation of cells belonging to one or more of the myeloid lineages. Central to the pathogenesis of the MPNs is constitutive activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway due to a family of driver mutations affecting JAK2, CALR or MPL. These disorders share common clinical and laboratory features, a significant burden of systemic symptoms, increased risk of developing arterial and venous thrombotic events, and the potential to progress to myelofibrosis and acute leukemia. Areas covered: We identified four clinical situations which represent challenging management dilemmas for patients with MPNs. Our conclusions and recommendations are based on a literature search using MEDLINE and recent meeting abstracts using the keywords, focusing on publications directly addressing these scenarios and on recent contributions to the field. Expert commentary: Multi-center efforts to study large cohorts of MPN patients have led to more uniform and evidence-based approaches to key aspects in MPN management. However, treatment strategies to deal with specific clinical scenarios are lacking.

Approach to thrombosis at unusual sites: Splanchnic and cerebral vein thrombosis

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) and cerebral vein thrombosis (CVT) are two manifestations of unusual site venous thromboembolism (VTE). SVT includes thrombosis in the portal, mesenteric or splenic veins, and the Budd-Chiari syndrome. CVT encompasses thrombosis of the dural venous sinuses and thrombosis of the cerebral veins. Unusual site VTE often represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge because of the heterogeneity in clinical presentation, the limited evidence available in the literature on the acute and long-term prognosis of these diseases, and the lack of large randomized controlled trials evaluating different treatment options. This narrative review describes the approach to patients with SVT or CVT by examining the diagnostic process, the assessment of potential risk factors and the appropriate anticoagulant treatment.

Splanchnic vein thrombosis in myeloproliferative neoplasms: pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of disease

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are the most common underlying prothrombotic disorder found in patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT). Clinical risk factors for MPN-associated SVTs include younger age, female sex, concomitant hypercoagulable disorders, and the JAK2 V617F mutation. These risk factors are distinct from those associated with arterial or deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in MPN patients, suggesting disparate disease mechanisms. The pathophysiology of SVT is thought to derive from local interactions between activated blood cells and the unique splanchnic endothelial environment. Other mutations commonly found in MPNs, including CALR and MPL, are rare in MPN-associated SVT. The purpose of this article is to review the clinical and molecular risk factors for MPN-associated SVT, with particular focus on the possible mechanisms of SVT formation in MPN patients.

Initial management of noncirrhotic splanchnic vein thrombosis: when is anticoagulation enough?

BACKGROUND

The optimal initial treatment of splanchnic vein thrombosis is uncertain. Anticoagulant therapy has been shown to be associated with vessel recanalization and decreased recurrence. Furthermore, information regarding potential predictors of chronic complications is not well understood.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study involving consecutive patients diagnosed with first-episode noncirrhotic splanchnic vein thrombosis referred to the thrombosis clinic of the authors' institution between 2008 and 2011 was conducted. Demographic and clinical information was collected. The response to initial anticoagulant therapy was evaluated by determining radiographic recanalization of vessels and clinical resolution (defined as the absence of ongoing splanchnic vein thrombosis symptoms or complications requiring treatment beyond anticoagulant therapy).

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients were included. Anticoagulant therapy alone resulted in vessel recanalization in 41% of patients and 68% achieved clinical resolution. Two patients experienced bleeding events. Factors associated with a lack of clinical resolution included signs of portal hypertension⁄liver failure on presentation, complete vessel occlusion at diagnosis, presence of a myeloproliferative disorder or JAK2V617F tyrosine kinase mutation and the absence of a local⁄transient predisposing factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Anticoagulant therapy appeared to be an effective initial treatment in patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis. Clinical factors may help to identify patients who are at risk for developing complications thus requiring closer monitoring. These findings were limited by the small sample size and need to be explored in larger prospective studies.