Portal hypertension is a condition characterized by increased blood pressure within the portal venous system, which carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. Normally, blood flows through the portal vein into the liver, where it is filtered and detoxified. However, when there is obstruction or increased resistance to blood flow within the portal vein or its branches, it leads to increased pressure in the portal venous system, resulting in portal hypertension.
Dr. Ronak Ajmera says the most common causes of portal hypertension include:
- Liver cirrhosis: This is the most frequent cause of portal hypertension. Cirrhosis is a condition in which healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue due to chronic liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis, alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or autoimmune hepatitis.
- Portal vein thrombosis: Blood clots within the portal vein or its branches can obstruct blood flow and lead to increased pressure.
- Budd-Chiari syndrome: This rare condition occurs when there is a blockage or narrowing of the hepatic veins, which carry blood from the liver to the heart. It can result from blood clots, tumors, or other anatomical abnormalities.
- Schistosomiasis: This parasitic infection, caused by certain species of Schistosoma, can lead to portal hypertension by causing fibrosis and obstruction in the portal venous system.
- Congenital abnormalities: Rarely, portal hypertension can be caused by congenital malformations or genetic disorders affecting the liver or blood vessels.
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What is Portal hypertension and what causes it ?