[Multiple angiodysplasia of the small intestine. A diagnostic and therapeutic challenge]

Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2004 May;27(5):311-3. doi: 10.1016/s0210-5705(03)70466-x.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Small bowel bleeding is infrequent and presents a challenge to the clinician. Approximately 30-40% of gastrointestinal bleeding localized in the small bowel is due to angiodysplasia, a vascular malformation. We present the case of a patient with multiple angiodysplasia of the small bowel who required push enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy to establish the diagnosis. Treatment with subcutaneous octreotide was successful. In conclusion, in doubtful cases or in patients with persistent hemorrhage, capsule endoscopy can improve the diagnostic yield of enteroscopy in bleeding gastrointestinal vascular lesions such as angiodysplasia. Endoscopic treatment (laser coagulation) and drug therapy (somatostatin or analogs) are valid alternatives in inoperable or non-resectable cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Angiodysplasia* / diagnosis
  • Angiodysplasia* / drug therapy
  • Gastrointestinal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Intestinal Diseases / drug therapy
  • Intestine, Small*
  • Male
  • Octreotide / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Gastrointestinal Agents
  • Octreotide