Idiopathic Mesenteric Phlebosclerosis Presenting as Recurrent Diarrhea

Our manuscript presents a rare case of idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerosis (IMP) in a 73-year-old woman who experienced recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea. Through a detailed clinical investigation, including laboratory tests, colonoscopy, biopsy, and enhanced abdominal CTA, we diagnosed the patient with IMP. Notably, we identified a potential link between the patient's long-term intake of a traditional Chinese herb containing Gardenia Fructus and the development of IMP. This finding is supported by existing literature, which suggests that genipin, a component of Gardenia Fructus, may cause intimal hyperplasia and fibrosis of the venous wall, leading to chronic intestinal ischemia. Our case highlights the importance of considering herbal intake as a potential risk factor for IMP and underscores the need for clinicians to be aware of the potential adverse effects of traditional herbal remedies.