Although this syndrome is rarely diagnosed, some estimates suggest that approximately 1 in 5 people have venous compression that causes this syndrome. Here's what you need to know:
What is May-Thurner syndrome?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, May-Thurner syndrome occurs when the left iliac vein, which carries blood from the left leg to the heart, is compressed by the right iliac artery, which crosses in the pelvis. This makes it harder for blood to flow back into the heart and can lead to deep vein thrombosis, where blood clots form in deep veins (usually in the legs).
These blood clots can break off and become lodged in the lungs, blocking blood flow in a so-called pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening.
Many people with May-Thurner syndrome experience no symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this condition is more common in people between the ages of 20 and 40 who have been pregnant.
According to a 2020 paper, the syndrome was initially presumed to be rare when it was anatomically defined by the syndrome's namesake researchers in 1957; There is speculation that it may be becoming more frequent and more prevalent “than generally realized”. By researchers at the University of Minnesota.
May-Thurner syndrome is also known as iliac vein compression syndrome or Cockett syndrome, named after one of the researchers who first reported the symptoms in a living patient.
What causes May-Thurner syndrome?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, experts are unsure why this type of venous compression occurs.
A 2020 paper notes that one reason the condition is underdiagnosed is that symptoms may not appear until “caused by instances of hypercoagulability,” such as during travel or postpartum, or by increased thrombophilia. This suggests that there may be.
Associated risk factors include pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, recent surgery, and trauma to the veins, according to Northwell Health.
What are the symptoms of May-Thurner syndrome?
Symptoms include swelling, bloating, or a feeling of heaviness in the legs or feet. Venous ulcers. He also has varicose veins, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Symptoms usually occur on the left leg and may include skin discoloration and pain, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI are usually used to diagnose the condition.
Treatment is symptomatic and may include the use of blood thinners, compression stockings, stenting, or thrombolytic therapy. A drug that destroys blood clots. In some cases, surgery may be used to reposition an artery to avoid compression or to bypass a narrowed section of the vein.
