[Inferior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula of congenital origin. A report on one case and review of the published literature (author's transl)].

A fourth case of inferior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula of congenital origin is described by the authors, who also review the general characteristics of mesenteric (or portal) arteriovenous fistulae. Early clinical signs are hemorrhage from the digestive tract and chronic anemia. Endoscopy and barium X-rays are normal, and angiography is the only means of diagnosis. Surgical treatment is essential because of the risk of hemorrhages and portal hypertension.