Blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome: a rare cause of chronic occult blood loss and iron deficiency anaemia

Abstract

Blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare vascular disorder with malformed veins, or blebs, appearing in the skin or internal organs. Gastrointestinal tract involvement is the most common feature and often subject to bleeding, potentially resulting in chronic occult blood loss and iron deficiency anaemia. We present the case of a 10-year-old boy with venous malformations on the feet and severe anaemia. Although massive sudden haemorrhage rarely occurs, awareness of the illness is necessary to prevent complications.