Vascular anatomy · USMLE Step 1

A patient with portal hypertension develops esophageal varices. Which veins form the portosystemic anastomosis in this region?

  1. Left gastric vein and azygos vein
  2. Superior rectal vein and inferior epigastric vein
  3. Splenic vein and lumbar veins
  4. Inferior mesenteric vein and renal veins
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Left gastric vein and azygos vein

Esophageal varices occur due to communication between the left gastric (portal) and azygos (systemic) veins. These become engorged in portal hypertension.

Difficulty: Medium Question 10 of 20

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