Primary mesenteric venous occlusive disease.

Primary mesenteric venous occlusive disease is a highly lethal disease. The only way to improve survival is early diagnosis and immediate laparotomy. The disease occurs in the older age group with a higher incidence in women and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of serious abdominal distress. The most helpful diagnostic tests are paracentesis and peritoneoscopy, but above all, the most important diagnostic tool is a high index of suspicion on the part of the examining physician.