Factor V Leiden and superior mesenteric artery occlusion: A case study

Abstract

Factor V Leiden (FVL) is an inherited condition that prolongs the clotting process; this subsequently places individuals at a higher risk of developing a thromboembolism1. This case study will discuss a 41-year-old female who developed a superior mesenteric artery occlusion with subsequent small bowel ischaemia on a background of FVL. The discussion will illustrate the rarity of an arterial occlusion, the risk factors that are associated with an ischaemic small bowel, the implications of inheriting FVL and some of the associated social aspects of an ileostomy.