Causes
Result of Atherosclerosis
Mesenteric artery disease is caused by a narrowing or blockage of one or more of your three mesenteric arteries. Such blockages are the result of atherosclerosis, a buildup of fats and cholesterol known as plaque in the arteries. Acute cases of mesenteric artery disease may be caused by a blood clot that breaks away from the heart, travels through one of the mesenteric arteries and blocks blood flow.
Other Causes
Other conditions that may lead to mesenteric ischemia include:
- Congestive heart failure
- Aortic dissection (a tear in the aorta’s inner layer)
- Coagulation disorders or rare disorders of the blood vessels such as fibromuscular dysplasia and arteritis
- Blockage of veins in the bowel
