Caput medusae is the appearance of enlarged or swollen veins across the front of your abdomen (belly). The name is Latin for “head of Medusa”. The veins appear to radiate out from your navel (belly button) like snakes from Medusa’s head.
Sometimes, caput medusae is also called the “palm tree sign”. Caput medusae ... Caput medusae is the appearance of distended and engorged superficial epigastric veins, which are seen radiating from the umbilicus across the abdomen. Caput medusae is a cluster of swollen veins in your abdomen.
caput medusae, Learn about what causes it, symptoms of caput medusae, and more. Caput Medusae refers to engorged and visible veins around the umbilicus, caused by obstruction or increased pressure in the portal venous system. The veins become dilated as blood seeks alternative pathways back to the heart, bypassing the high-pressure portal system. According to the Cleveland Clinic, caput medusae is a term used to describe engorged veins radiating from the navel (belly button). The name comes from Greek mythology, referring to Medusa, a figure with snakes for hair —because the pattern of swollen veins resembles writhing snakes.
caput medusae, What is Caput Medusae? Is it the Cause of My Varicose Veins? Caput Medusae is a term used to describe the appearance of prominent veins around the abdomen and the navel. This condition is often a sign of serious underlying liver disease, particularly cirrhosis. Caput medusae is defined as large dilated venous collaterals radiating from the umbilicus, which can form as a result of increased venous pressure. Detailed knowledge of these collaterals is crucial to prevent inadvertent interruption and uncontrollable bleeding during medical interventions.
Dilated tortuous superficial epigastric veins (caput medusae, figure 1) were noted above the umbilicus radiating from a central large venous varix like snakes emerging from Medusa's head.
