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SMA syndrome is a rare (incidence 0.013%–0.3%) but potentially life-threatening cause of duodenal obstruction resulting from compression of the third portion of the duodenum between the SMA anteriorly and the aorta/vertebral column posteriorly, due to a narrowed aortomesenteric angle (<25°) and distance (<10 mm). [1-2] It predominantly affects young females (F:M = 3:2), ages 10–39, and is most commonly precipitated by rapid weight loss. [1][3]
1. History
2. Alarm Features
3. Medications
4. Diet
5. Review of Systems
6. Collateral History and Family History
7. Risk Factors
8. Differential Diagnosis
9. Past Medical History
10. Physical Exam
11. Lab Studies
12. Imaging
13. Special Tests
14. ECG
15. Assessment
16. Treatment Plan
Initial stabilization (ED):
Conservative management (first-line):
Surgical management (for refractory cases):
17. Disposition
18. Follow Up / Return Precautions
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40. Minimal Weight Loss Related to a Short Fasting Period Causes Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome in a Patient With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Case Report. — Kang DH, Baik SW, Won YH, Ko MH. Medicine. 2020.
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