The purpose of this poster is to review the main imaging features of the computed tomography (CT) hypoperfusion complex, namely the vascular and visceral manifestations, to increase the awareness and recognition of radiologists and allow better management of these patients.

CT hypoperfusion complex consists of a constellation of imaging findings that arise in the presence of severe hypotension. In this context, several abdominal organs may present atypical appearances, which are unrelated to initialinjury but are secondary to perfusion alterations of hypovolemia. Post-traumatic hypovolaemic shock, septic shock, head or spinal injury, bacterial endocarditis and diabetic ketoacidosis are some recognized causes of hypotension/hypoperfusion, with almost identical body homeostatic response and therefore similar manifestations on CT. In the beginning, the clinical of shock, such as hypotension and tachycardia,...

The use of abdominal CT in hypotensive patients with a range of acute abdominal and systemic disorders is increasing and evolving. Abdominal CT may demonstrate several classic signs, collectively known as the CT hypotension complex, which is due to sympathetic nervous system activation as a protective physiological reaction. The generic CT features are broadly divided into visceral and vascular manifestations and may be reversible on an early stage. VISCERAL MANIFESTATIONS: 1. Mural thickening and mucosal hyperenhancement of the small bowel In the presence of hypovolemic...

The knowledge of the classic imaging features of CT hypoperfusion complex, associated with the appropriate clinical context is essential to prevent misdiagnosis and allow proper and early treatment. This condition can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality; therefore a high degree of suspicion and an accurate radiological assessment are fundamental.

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