An unusual cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in a hemodialysis patient.

Abstract

Iron deficiency caused by gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common cause of anemia in hemodialysis patient. Herein, we report the case of an 89-year-old hemodialysis patient who presented with acute anemia and melena. Endoscopy found gastritis and diverticulosis without active bleeding. A capsule endoscopy (CE) was then performed and revealed multiple vascular lesions that lead to the diagnosis of Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus syndrome (BRBNS). This rare disease is associated with multiple venous malformations in the skin and the GI tract, usually observed in children. The patient developed 4 months latter 2 skin lesions compatible with BRBNS. Treatment included blood transfusion and intravenous iron supplementation. We reported an unusual presentation of venous malformation BRBS which differs from angioectasia, in an adult hemodialysis patient. Overall prognosis is good.

• Authors: Julien Aron, Aymeric Couturier, Leila Sinayoko, Viviane Duedal, Christophe Ridel, Maxime Touzot
• Journal: Hemodialysis international. International Symposium on Home Hemodialysis (Hemodial Int) Vol. 22 Issue 4 Pg. E60-E62 (10 2018) ISSN: 1542-4758 [Electronic] Canada
• PMID: 29608808 (Publication Type: Case Reports)
• Copyright: © 2018 International Society for Hemodialysis.

Topics

• Aged, 80 and over
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage (etiology, pathology)
• Gastrointestinal Neoplasms (diagnosis, pathology)
• Humans
• Male
• Nevus, Blue (diagnosis, pathology)
• Prognosis
• Renal Dialysis (adverse effects)
• Skin Neoplasms (diagnosis, pathology)