portal hypertension

Definition / meaning of portal hypertension

High blood pressure in the vein that carries blood to the liver from the stomach, small and large intestines, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is usually caused by a block in the blood flow through the liver due to cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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