# Cavernomatous Transformation of the Portal Vein in a Seven-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A seven-year-old child in Mexico experienced repeated upper digestive bleeding due to a rare liver vein condition called cavernomatous transformation.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the importance of recognizing cavernomatous transformation of the portal vein in pediatric patients with upper digestive bleeding.

## Key findings

- The patient had multiple hospitalizations for acute upper digestive tract bleeding.
- Cavernomatous transformation of the portal vein was diagnosed as the underlying cause.
- The case emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment in similar pediatric cases.

## Abstract

Portal hypertension is a significant cause of upper digestive tract bleeding in pediatric patients. In Mexico, the primary cause of portal hypertension is the cavernomatous transformation of the portal vein (CTPV) secondary to chronic portal vein thrombosis. The portal cavernoma is a morphological anomaly of the portal circulation characterized by dilated and tortuous veins surrounding the porta hepatis formed to circumvent a chronic obstruction. We present the case of a seven-year-old patient with a history of several hospitalizations due to acute upper digestive tract bleeding with subsequent diagnosis confirming the presence of the CTPV. This case underscores the relevance of the pediatric patient history in diagnosing acute upper digestive tract bleeding, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical suspicion and prompt diagnostic and therapeutic intervention in pediatric patients with these characteristics.