Small Intestine Ectopic Varices as a Cause of Obscure Gastrointestinal Bleeding in a Cirrhotic Patient

Abstract

Portal hypertension is a major complication of liver cirrhosis, leading to various life-threatening conditions. The most common of these is the formation and bleeding of varices at the portosystemic anastomosis. Varices are most commonly esophageal or gastric and less commonly ectopic. Although ectopic varices are rare, they should be considered as a cause of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding in cirrhotic patients. We present a case of ruptured ectopic varices in the small intestine of a known cirrhotic patient who presented with anemia and melena, alternated with hematochezia. The case was managed with Histoacryl ® injection using push enteroscopy, resulting in adequate hemostasis.