Banti's syndrome

Ban·ti's syndrome (bntz, bän-)

n.

Chronic congestive enlargement of the spleen that occurs primarily in children following hypertension in the portal or splenic veins and is characterized by anemia, splenomegaly, ascites, jaundice, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Also called Banti's disease, splenic anemia.

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Banti's syndrome

[ban′tēz]

Etymology: Guido Banti, Italian pathologist, 1852-1925

a chronic, progressive disorder involving several organ systems, characterized by portal hypertension, splenomegaly, anemia, leukopenia, GI tract bleeding, and cirrhosis of the liver. Obstruction of the blood vessels that lie between the intestines and the liver leads to venous congestion, enlargement of the spleen, and abnormal destruction of red and white blood cells. Early symptoms are weakness, fatigue, and anemia. Surgical removal of the spleen and creation of a portacaval shunt to improve portal circulation are sometimes necessary. Since the syndrome is often a complication of alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, medical treatment includes prescribing improved nutrition, vitamins, abstinence from alcohol, and rest. Also called Banti's syndrome. See also congestive splenomegalia, cirrhosis, portacaval shunt, portal hypertension.