Delayed-onset superior mesenteric artery syndrome presenting as oesophageal peptic stricture

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is an infrequent cause of vomiting and weight loss due to compression of the third part of the duodenum by the SMA. We describe the case of a 17-year-old woman, admitted to our department for progressive dysphagia and severe weight loss due to an oesophageal peptic stricture, caused by chronic acid reflux secondary to duodenal compression by the SMA. Symptoms improved after (par)enteral nutrition and repeated oesophageal dilatation, thus supporting the role of intensive medical and endoscopic intervention as an alternative to surgery, at least in some cases.