What is Budd-Chiari Syndrome?

What is Budd-Chiari Syndrome?

Budd-Chiari syndrome is a condition in which the hepatic veins (veins that drain the liver) are blocked or narrowed by a clot (mass of blood cells). This blockage causes blood to back up into the liver, and as a result, the liver grows larger. The spleen (an organ located on the upper left side of the abdomen that helps fight infection by filtering the blood) may also grow larger.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome may also cause other conditions, including:

• Portal hypertension (increased pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the intestines to the liver).
• Esophageal varices (twisted veins in the esophagus, or “food tube”).
• Ascites (a buildup of fluid in the abdomen).
• Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver).
• Varicose veins (abnormal, swollen blood vessels) in the abdomen and/or rectum.