Budd-Chiari Syndrome

Liver congestion from hepatic vein outflow obstruction.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 10, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Budd-Chiari Syndrome?

Budd-Chiari syndrome is a vascular liver disease produced by obstruction of the hepatic veins or the hepatic segment of the inferior vena cava. The result is hepatic congestion, sinusoidal hypertension, and hepatocyte necrosis.

Underlying causes include myeloproliferative neoplasms — especially polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia — antiphospholipid syndrome, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and oral contraceptive use; multiple thrombophilic factors are identified in 20 to 30 percent of cases.

The disease may follow acute, subacute, or chronic courses. Diagnosis is established with Doppler ultrasonography, computed tomography, and MR venography; treatment ranges from anticoagulation and angioplasty to TIPS or liver transplantation.

Symptoms

Right upper quadrant abdominal pain

Rapidly developing ascites

Hepatomegaly

Jaundice

Lower extremity edema

Variceal bleeding

Risk Factors

Myeloproliferative neoplasms — polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia

Antiphospholipid syndrome

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria

Oral contraceptive use

Pregnancy

Behcet disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Sudden abdominal pain and distension
Rapidly accumulating ascites
Coexisting jaundice and hepatomegaly
Abdominal symptoms in a patient with known thrombophilia

Treatment Methods

Anticoagulation — heparin followed by warfarin or a direct oral anticoagulant

Percutaneous angioplasty and stent placement

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)

Treatment of the underlying myeloproliferative disease

Liver transplantation in refractory cases

Management of ascites and other portal hypertension complications

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.