Acute mesenteric ischaemia (AMI) is a clinically heterogenous, relatively seldom occurring disease, which is, however, characterised by poor prognosis. It may be caused by mesenteric artery occlusion (by embolus or thrombus) or spasm (non-occlusive form), or visceral vein thrombosis. Current observations point to an increase in AMI incidence, mainly due to prolonged lifespan in the general population and improved treatment outcomes in severe cardiovascular diseases. Making AMI diagnosis and starting treatment within 24 hours from onset of symptoms is crucial for patient prognosis. This is feasible if disturbances of mesenteric circulation are considered in differential diagnostics of acute abdominal pain, especially in cases with possible i...