Wilkie syndrome. Imaging diagnosis

Wilkie syndrome represents a rare cause of intestinal obstruction due to external compression of the third duodenal portion by the superior mesenteric artery. We present a 68-year-old woman who came to the consultation for frequent bilious vomiting, abdominal distension and marked weight loss. Extrinsic duodenal compression was evidenced in its third portion by means of barium radiographic studies with fluoroscopic control and computerized axial tomography with oral and intravenous contrast; Wilkie syndrome was diagnosed and conservative treatment was instituted, which progressed favorably. Wilkie syndrome, despite its low incidence, should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cases of upper intestinal obstruction.