Duodenal Variceal Bleeding: A Rare Case of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common medical condition that presents with hematemesis (vomiting of blood or coffee ground -like material) and/or melena (black, tarry stools). Gastroduodenal ulcer disease, erosive esophagitis, esophagogastric varices, and erosive gastritis/duodenitis account for most of the cases. Ectopic varices are varices develop at sites other than the esophagus and stomach for example duodenal, rectal, and peristomal varices. Ectopic varices are relatively rare; however, approximately 5% are related to gastrointestinal bleeding. Duodenal variceal bleeding is a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. Here we report a case of UGIB due to duodenal varices in a 44-year-old woman who admitted to the hospital because of melena, nausea, and vomiting from 3 weeks earlier. Two esophagogastroduodenoscopic examination and one colonoscopic examination were normal. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen revealed ectopic varices in the duodenum. Endoscopic cyanoacrylate was injected and bleeding was controlled. The patient did not experience rebleeding after one month.