Recurrent upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to the Dieulafoy's lesion
Chan, A.Y.; Ramsey, W.H.
Connecticut Medicine 64(3): 139-141
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0010-6178 PMID: 10750306 Document Number: 514015
Dieulafoy's lesion of the gastrointestinal tract, an abnormally dilated artery that penetrates through the mucosa, has been diagnosed more frequently in recent years. Bleeding occurs when the vessel ruptures. Despite widespread awareness of this entity, it remains a diagnostic challenge for gastroenterologists because of its small size and hidden location. Several different diagnostic methods and treatments have been introduced throughout the years. Endoscopy plays a major role in diagnosis and therapy. In this case report, the patient was successfully treated endoscopically using epinephrine injection and heater probe thermoco-agulation. The characteristics of the Dieulafoy's lesion, its current diagnosis, treatment, and complications are discussed.