Triple abdominal vascular compression: coexistence of Dunbar syndrome, Wilkie syndrome, and Nutcracker phenomenon: a case report and literature review

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (Dunbar syndrome) is characterized by compression of the celiac trunk, causing postprandial abdominal pain and ischemic symptoms. Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (Wilkie’s syndrome) results from narrowing of the aortomesenteric angle, leading to duodenal obstruction and weight loss. Nutcracker phenomenon, in turn, consists of compression of the left renal vein between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery. While each of these entities are individually uncommon, their coexistence in a single patient is exceptionally rare and poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We report the case of a young woman diagnosed simultaneously with all three conditions who was successfully managed through a surgical approach. Diagnostic methods and therapeutic options are discussed, highlighting the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for the timely and appropriate management of these uncommon compressive syndromes.

Keywords:
median arcuate ligament syndrome; superior mesenteric artery syndrome; renal Nutcracker syndrome; case reports