Portal hypertension is increased pressure in the portal vein – the main vein that receives blood from the stomach, small intestines
and spleen. Portal hypertension is most often a symptom of liver disease and is most commonly caused by cirrhosis, or scarring
in the liver. The increased pressure can occur when the veins leading into or out of the liver are blocked or as a result
of chronic pancreatitis. In newborns, umbilical infection can lead to portal hypertension. However, in cases of chronic pancreatitis
and umbilical infection, the liver is usually normal.
Variceal bleeding
Pressure on the portal vein causes blood flow to be restricted or pushed backward. This, in turn, leads to the enlargement
and lengthening of the veins in the stomach and esophagus. These enlarged veins are called varices. Excessive bleeding from
the varices is a potentially life-threatening condition that must be treated. This excessive bleeding often recurs and is
associated with a high risk of death.
Other complications
Portal hypertension may also cause the spleen to become enlarged. This can lead to abdominal discomfort and, because the enlarged
spleen holds blood cells, platelet and white blood cell counts are reduced.
Other conditions that may develop as a result of portal hypertension include ascites and encephalopathy. Ascites is the buildup
of fluid in the abdomen that results from leakage of abdominal fluid out of the liver and the lining of the intestines. When
the volume of fluid is greater than the ability of the abdominal lining to absorb it, the fluid accumulates – stretching and
expanding the abdomen.
Encephalopathy is abnormal functioning of the brain. Encephalopathy caused by liver disease is marked by mental changes resulting
from toxic substances reaching the brain without first being metabolized by the liver.
Contact us
To schedule an appointment with a Jefferson physician call 1-800-JEFF-NOW or click here.
To contact the Liver Tumor Program team at the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson, please call 215-503-8752 and/or fax your records to 215-503-8755. We aim to schedule your first clinic visit within two weeks of your diagnosis being made and records being received.
