Recurrent lower gastrointestinal bleeding from idiopathic ileocolonic varices: a case report
Open Access
- 10 August 2010
- journal article
- Published by Springer Science and Business Media LLC in Journal of Medical Case Reports
- Vol. 4 (1), 257
- https://doi.org/10.1186/1752-1947-4-257
Abstract
Introduction Varices of the colon are a rare cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, usually associated with portal hypertension due to liver cirrhosis or other causes of portal venous obstruction. Idiopathic colonic varices are extremely rare. Recognition of this condition is important as idiopathic colonic varices may be a cause of recurrent lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Case presentation We report the case of a 21-year-old Asian man from north India who presented with recurrent episodes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Colonoscopy revealed varices involving the terminal ileum and colon to the sigmoid. Thorough evaluation was undertaken to rule out any underlying portal hypertension. Our patient underwent subtotal colectomy including resection of involved terminal ileum and an ileorectal anastomosis. Conclusion Colonic varices are an uncommon cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Idiopathic colonic varices are diagnosed after excluding underlying liver disease and portal hypertension. Recognition of this condition is important as prognosis is good in the absence of liver disease and is curable by resection of the involved bowel.Keywords
This publication has 11 references indexed in Scilit:
- Familial colonic varices — a cause of “polyposis” on barium enemaThe British Journal of Radiology, 2008
- Clinical relevance of colonic lesions in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertensionEndoscopy, 2006
- Massive Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding From Idiopathic Ileocolonic Varix: Report of a CaseDiseases of the Colon & Rectum, 2006
- A case of idiopathic colonic varices: A rare cause of hematochezia misconceived as tumorWorld Journal of Gastroenterology, 2006
- Idiopathic colonic varices.2004
- Congenital colonic varices in the adultDiseases of the Colon & Rectum, 1995
- Idiopathic colonic varices: an unusual cause of massive lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage.1995
- Familial and idiopathic colonic varices: an unusual cause of lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage.Gut, 1992
- Colonic varicesDiseases of the Colon & Rectum, 1989
- Varices of the ColonJAMA, 1962