Caput medusae

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Caput medusae
Classification and external resources
ICD-10 I86.8 (ILDS I86.820)
ICD-9 456.8

Caput medusae is the appearance of distended and engorged paraumbilical veins, which are seen radiating from the umbilicus across the abdomen to join systemic veins. The name caput medusae (Latin for "head of Medusa") originates from the apparent similarity to Medusa's hair once Minerva had turned it into snakes[citation needed].

Causes

It is a sign of severe portal hypertension that has decompressed by portal-systemic shunting through the paraumbilical veins.[1]

Differential diagnosis

Inferior vena cava obstruction

How to differentiate

Determine the direction of flow in the veins below the umbilicus.

  • Caput Medusae - flow is towards the legs
  • Inferior vena cava obstruction - flow is towards the head.

See also

References

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  1. "Hepatic Pathology". Retrieved 2007-12-09.