Changes in splenoportal axis calibre and flow in a patient affected by hereditary angioedema

The authors describe a case of hereditary angioedema characterised by abdom inal pain accompanied by ascites. Ultrasound (US) examination performed aft er acute abdominal attack implied the presence of increased splenoportal ax is calibre and reduced blood flow. According to the authors, this may confi rm the pathogenic role of C1-inhibitor deficiency induced oedema that is ca pable of creating major haemodynamic involvement also of abdominal vessels. US findings of transient appearance, especially related to the specific tr eatment, may help physicians make early diagnosis and avoid dangerous invas ive procedures resulting from incorrect diagnosis of acute abdomen.