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What is Caput Medusae?

By H. Colledge
Updated: Mar 03, 2024

Caput medusae is a medical term used to describe a condition where swollen, or engorged, veins appear on the belly, or abdomen. The veins run outward in all directions from the belly button, or umbilicus, and are twisted in shape. In Latin, caput medusae means the head of Medusa. Medusa was a monster in Greek mythology who had hair made out of snakes. The twisting pattern of veins on the abdomen is thought to resemble this.

A condition known as portal hypertension typically causes caput medusae. In portal hypertension, there is abnormally high pressure in what is called the portal circulation. The portal circulation consists of a system of veins that carries nutrients from the gut, spleen, and pancreas to the liver. Pressure within the system can rise due to an increased flow of blood entering it, or as the result of an obstruction. The obstruction could occur at any point between the blood leaving the gut, spleen, and pancreas, its passage through the liver and its exit into the systemic veins which drain into the heart.

Cirrhosis of the liver is one of the common causes of portal hypertension. The disease causes damage to the liver, distorting the channels that carry blood within it. As it becomes more difficult for blood to flow through the liver, pressure builds up in the portal circulation and the body attempts to bypass it by opening up alternative networks of veins. These networks connect the portal system with the systemic circulation that returns blood to the heart from the rest of the body.

One of these bypass networks typically forms in what are called the paraumbilical veins, around the umbilicus, causing them to enlarge to create the caput medusae. With a large caput medusae, it is sometimes possible to hear blood humming inside the veins. The sound becomes louder when the person breathes in, and is known as a Cruveilhier-Baumgarten murmur.

Other sites where veins become similarly swollen include the point where the esophagus, or food pipe, meets the stomach and around the rectum, the last part of the gut, from which feces leaves the body. Portal hypertension can result in fluid building up, causing swelling of the belly and legs, and an enlarged spleen. The breasts may become swollen and the umbilicus might stick out.

Management of portal hypertension involves treating the underlying cause. In the case of cirrhosis, a liver transplant may be necessary. Occasionally, fluid in the abdomen may need to be drained, and surgery may be carried out to stop bleeding from veins around the esophagus.

The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By Telsyst — On Feb 27, 2014
Greek mythology described the monster Medusa as a Gorgon, which is a female creature of dread. The term refers to three sisters: Medusa, Stheno and Euryalewith. Their hair was made of venomous snakes and one look at their faces would cause one to turn to stone. Of the three sisters, Medusa was the one who was mortal and was slain by the mythical hero Perseus.

Gorgons are very prevalent in Greek mythology and their image adorns many precious items and buildings to protect them.

In Roman mythology, Medusa's story is different and much more tragic. Medusa started life as one of the most beautiful maidens. She was sought after by many men. She was raped by the god Poseidon in the goddess Athena's own temple.

Athena became enraged and so punished the beautiful maiden by making her so incredibly hideous that seeing her face would cause a man to turn to stone. Medusa's beautiful hair was transformed into serpents. Again in this mythology, she is slain by Perseus, who cuts her head off, using his shield to see her reflection and avoiding being turned to stone.

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