An eating disorder disguised as superior mesenteric artery syndrome

Abstract

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is the clinical diagnosis for symptoms resulting from compression of the duodenum between the abdominal aorta and SMA. SMA syndrome and eating disorders often present with similar gastrointestinal complaints such as abdominal pain, reflux, vomiting, and nausea. While SMA syndrome is seen with anorexia nervosa, it has rarely been associated with avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). We present a case of ARFID initially presenting as a radiologic diagnosis of SMA syndrome.

Keywords: ARFID; Eating disorder; Superior mesenteric artery syndrome.