Vascular malformations of the gastrointestinal tract

Putative diagnosis of neuromuscular and vascular hamartoma: 2 cases in dogs and review of the veterinary literature

Neuromuscular and vascular hamartoma (NMVH) is an infrequent gastrointestinal lesion described in human and veterinary medical literature. The histologic features of this entity are haphazardly arranged fascicles of smooth muscle, nerve fibers, scattered ganglion cells, and hemangiomatous blood vessels. Here we describe 2 putative cases of NMVH in a 1.7-y-old, intact female Anatolian mixed-breed dog and a 4-mo-old intact male Akita dog. Both animals had gastrointestinal clinical signs, including hematochezia, and on exploratory laparotomy, intussusception was confirmed. Histologic examination confirmed NMVH within the cecal wall in both cases using a panel of immunohistochemical (IHC) markers for vascular structures (CD31), smooth muscle (alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA]), and nerves (glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP] and S100). The complete surgical excision of the lesion in both animals was considered curative without persistent clinical signs 14 mo and 12 mo, respectively, after surgery.

Persistent Gastrointestinal Bleeding after Aortic Valve Replacement in Heyde's Syndrome

Heyde's syndrome (HS) represents an association between aortic stenosis and intestinal angiodysplasias, and it has been demonstrated that acquired von Willebrand disease plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of this syndrome. In patients with HS, von Willebrand factor deficiency represents an additional risk factor, further contributing to the risk of bleeding and anemia. We present the case of an 86-year-old patient diagnosed with HS and von Willebrand deficiency in 2018. Four years prior, the patient underwent surgical aortic valve replacement. Since then, she has been receiving chronic oral anticoagulation therapy with a vitamin K antagonist. The patient was admitted to the Internal Medicine Clinic due to semi-solid dark stools, diffuse abdominal pain, and asthenia. Upon examination, the patient presented with an altered general status and clinical signs suggestive of anemia. Laboratory findings revealed anemia with elevated INR and aPTT values. Colonic angiodysplasias were identified during a colonoscopy, although no sources of active bleeding were detected. On the 9th day of hospitalization, the patient experienced an episode of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. The pharmacological management was adjusted, and argon plasma coagulation was recommended. Following treatment of the angiodysplastic lesions, the patient's clinical evolution was favorable, with the correction of the anemia.

Giant rectal vascular malformation: a rare differential diagnosis in rectal bleeding

Investigations in a woman with prolonged symptoms of laxative-resistant constipation and recurrent rectal bleeding revealed a giant rectal vascular malformation. Colonoscopy and MRI were performed to rule out malignancy and determine differential diagnoses. Repeated tests were necessary due to inconclusive results. After a definite diagnosis, image-guided, transcutaneously administered sclerotherapy was used. The intervention and postoperative course were uneventful. A minimally invasive procedure relieved symptoms and improved quality of life.

Gastrointestinal bleeding in von Willebrand patients: special diagnostic and management considerations

INTRODUCTION

Severe and recurrent gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding caused by angiodysplasia is a significant problem in patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD) and in those with acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS). At present, angiodysplasia-related GI bleeding is often refractory to standard treatment including replacement therapy with von Willebrand factor (VWF) concentrates and continues to remain a major challenge and cause of significant morbidity in patients despite advances in diagnostics and therapeutics.

AREAS COVERED

This paper reviews the available literature on GI bleeding in VWD patients, examines the molecular mechanisms implicated in angiodysplasia-related GI bleeding, and summarizes existing strategies in the management of bleeding GI angiodysplasia in patients with VWF abnormalities. Suggestions are made for further research directions.

EXPERT OPINION

Bleeding from angiodysplasia poses a significant challenge for individuals with abnormal VWF. Diagnosis remains a challenge and may require multiple radiologic and endoscopic investigations. Additionally, there is a need for enhanced understanding at a molecular level to identify effective therapies. Future studies of VWF replacement therapies using newer formulations as well as other adjunctive treatments to prevent and treat bleeding will hopefully improve care.

Retroperitoneal cavernous hemangioma misdiagnosed as lymphatic cyst: A case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Primary abdominal and retroperitoneal cavernous hemangioma is a vascular tumor and rarely seen in the clinic. Due to the lack of specific imaging features, retroperitoneal cavernous hemangioma cannot be diagnosed accurately. Some symptoms may develop with the enlargement of lesion volume or the occurrence of complications such as rupture or oppression. We report here a special case who was admitted with chronic abdominal pain. Admission examination suggested a retroperitoneal lymphatic duct cyst. Laparoscopic resection of the retroperitoneal mass was performed, and histological examination confirmed retroperitoneal cavernous hemangioma.

CASE SUMMARY

The patient was a 43-year-old Tibetan woman with intermittent left lower abdominal pain and discomfort 3 years ago. Ultrasonography revealed a cystic mass in the retroperitoneum with clear boundaries, internal septa, and no blood flow signal. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an irregular space-occupying mass in the retroperitoneum, and retroperitoneal lymphatic cyst was considered. Plain CT scanning showed multiple cyst-like hypo-intense shadows in the retroperitoneum, partially fused into a mass, and no obvious enhancement was found on enhanced scanning. MRI showed multiple irregular clump-like long T1 and long T2 signal shadows above the pancreas, within which linear short T2 signal shadows were seen. Diffusion-weighted imaging sequence showed hypo-signal shadows, without obvious enhancement on enhanced scanning. Ultrasound, CT, and MRI all suggested the possibility of retroperitoneal lymphatic cyst. However, the patient was finally diagnosed with retroperitoneal cavernous hemangioma by pathological examination.

CONCLUSION

Retroperitoneal cavernous hemangioma is a benign lesion, and it is difficult to make a diagnosis preoperatively. Surgical resection may be the only treatment, which not only allows histopathological confirmation as a diagnostic purpose and excludes any risk of malignancy, but also avoids invasion of adjacent tissues, oppression, and other complications as a therapeutic goal.

Colonoscopic and Clinical Features of Colonic Angiodysplasia: A Study in 54 Patients

OBJECTIVES

Colonic angiodysplasia is a rare disease, it is nevertheless a common cause of lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in older adults. The study summarized the colonoscopic and clinical features of colonic angiodysplasia to raise awareness among endoscopists regarding this disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of enrolled patients diagnosed with colonic angiodysplasia between September 2013 and April 2022. Clinical and colonoscopic features of the patients with active bleeding were analyzed and compared with those of patients without bleeding. The comparisons were also conducted between the patients with active lower GI bleeding caused by colonic angiodysplasia and those by other diseases.

RESULTS

In total, 54 eligible patients were included in this study; 55.55% of the participants were aged over 60 years. Ten patients (3 men and 7 women) with colonic angiodysplasia suffered from active lower GI bleeding, which was mainly located in the left and total colon. The patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, radiotherapy history, antiplatelet drug use, and multiple lesions were more likely to endure lower GI bleeding. The duration between bleeding and admission was longer in the colonic angiodysplasia group than in the other diseases group ( P = 0.043). In the colonic angiodysplasia group, bleeding relapsed in 3 patients, and the recurrence rate was higher than in the other diseases group ( P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopists should perform colonoscopy scrupulously and consider colonic angiodysplasia as a differential diagnosis in patients with lower GI bleeding, especially for older women and adults with chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Gastrointestinal angiodysplasias diagnosed using video capsule endoscopy in 15 dogs

BACKGROUND

Angiodysplasia (AGD) is rarely diagnosed in dogs with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) and is reported in case reports in dogs.

OBJECTIVE

Describe signalment, clinical and diagnostic features of dogs with gastrointestinal (GI) AGD diagnosed by video capsule endoscopy (VCE).

ANIMALS

Dogs with overt or suspected GIB which underwent VCE.

METHODS

Dogs for which a VCE was submitted for overt or suspected GIB from 2016 to 2021 were selected retrospectively. Medical records and full-length VCE recordings where AGDs were initially detected, were reviewed by 2 trained internists. AGD was considered definitive if 2 readers detected it. Signalment, clinical signs, blood work, medications, concurrent diseases, findings of previous conventional endoscopy, and surgical exploration (if applicable) of dogs with AGD were recorded.

RESULTS

Definitive AGD was diagnosed in 15 of 291 (5%) dogs (12 males, 3 females). Twelve (80%) had overt GIB, 11 (73%) had hematochezia, and 6 (40%) had microcytic and hypochromic anemia. AGD was missed by conventional endoscopy in 9/9 dogs and exploratory surgery in 3/3 dogs. Thirteen capsules were administered by mouth (1 incomplete study), and 2 via endoscopy directly into the duodenum. AGD was visualized in the stomach of 3 dogs, in the small intestine of 4, and in the colon of 13 dogs.

CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Although rare, AGD should be considered in dogs with suspected GIB after a negative conventional endoscopy or surgical exporation. Video capsuel endoscopy appears to be a sensitive test to identify AGD within the GI tract.

Cavernous hemangioma of the ileum in a young man: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Small intestinal cavernous hemangioma is a rare disease, especially in the ileum. It is difficult to accurately diagnose due to its hidden location and nonspecific clinical symptoms. Here, we reported a case of ileal cavernous hemangioma with chronic hemorrhage in a 20-year-old man and review the literature to gain a better understanding of this disease.

CASE SUMMARY

The patient complained of intermittent melena and hematochezia for > 3 mo. The lowest hemoglobin level revealed by laboratory testing was 3.4 g/dL (normal range: 12-16 g/dL). However, the gastroscopy, colonoscopy and peroral double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) showed no signs of bleeding. The transanal DBE detected a lesion at about 340 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. Thus, we performed an exploratory laparoscopy and the lesion was resected. After the operation, the patient had no melena. Finally, the pathological examination identified the neoplasm as an ileal cavernous hemangioma, thereby resulting in gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

This report might improve the diagnosis and treatment of ileal cavernous hemangioma.

Efficacy of pharmacologic treatment for treating gastrointestinal angiodysplasias-related bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

We evaluated the efficacy of pharmacologic treatments for patients with overt or occult bleeding due to gastrointestinal angiodysplasias (GIADs).

METHODS

A systematic computer-aided literature search across Medline, Cochrane, Scopus and Embase databases was performed. Studies evaluating pharmacologic treatments for patients presenting with GIADs-related overt or occult bleeding were included. Post-treatment rebleeding was the primary outcome. Need for red blood cells (RBC) transfusion, post-treatment hemoglobin levels and adverse events rate comprised secondary outcomes. Results are presented as odds ratio (OR), mean difference (MD) or pooled rates (%) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI).

RESULTS

Four types of pharmacologic treatment were identified (25 studies): somatostatin analogs, hormonal therapy, thalidomide and angiogenesis inhibitors. Pharmacologic treatment of any kind led to significantly reduced bleeding episodes [OR (95% CI), 0.08 (0.04-0.18)]. No pharmacologic treatment was superior to others ( P  = 0.46). Overall, pooled rebleeding rate post-treatment was 34% (26-43%). Similarly, significantly fewer patients required RBC transfusion during the post-treatment period [0.03 (0.03-0.07)], with no differences among various treatments ( P  = 0.83), yielding an overall pooled transfusion rate of 33% (19-46%). Administration of pharmacological treatment led to significant improvement in terms of hemoglobin levels [MD (95% CI), 3.21 g/dL (2.42-3.99)]. The pooled rate of adverse events was 32% (22-42%).

CONCLUSION

In patients with GIADs administration of any pharmacologic treatment significantly decreases rebleeding episodes and transfusions leading to higher hemoglobin values. One-third of them experience at least one adverse event related to the treatment.

Role of octreotide in small bowel bleeding

Gastrointestinal bleeding accounts for a drastic negative impact on the quality of the patients’ lives as it requires multiple diagnostic and therapeutic interventions to identify the source of the bleeding. Small bowel bleeding is the least common cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, it is responsible for the majority of complaints from patients with persisting or recurring bleeding where the primary source of bleeding cannot be identified despite investigation. A somatostatin analog known as octreotide is among the medical treatment modalities currently used to manage small bowel bleeding. This medication helps control symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding by augmenting platelet aggregation, decreasing splanchnic blood flow, and antagonizing angiogenesis. In this review article, we will highlight the clinical efficacy of octreotide in small bowel bleeding and its subsequent effect on morbidity and mortality.

Idiopathic Spontaneous Intraperitoneal Hemorrhage Due to Vascular Malformations in the Muscularis of the Stomach: A Case Report

Idiopathic spontaneous intraperitoneal hemorrhage (ISIH) is a phenomenon caused by spontaneous rupture of intra-abdominal visceral vessels, and vascular malformations (VMs) leading to ISIH are rare in previously reported cases. VMs of the gastric wall, which are commonly located in the mucosa and submucosa, mostly lead to upper gastrointestinal bleeding rather than intraperitoneal hemorrhage. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ISIH caused by VMs in gastric muscularis. In the current case, a 22-year-old male patient presented with sudden abdominal pain for 4 h, accompanied by tachycardia and hypotension. CT revealed a hematoma in the omental bursa and fluids in abdominopelvic cavities. Then intraperitoneal hemorrhage was confirmed after abdominal paracentesis. Furthermore, ultrasonic gastroscopy indicated that vascular malformation in the muscularis of the stomach probably led to intraperitoneal hemorrhage. The patient recovered after conservative treatment based on fluid resuscitation and remained stable for 12 months of follow-up. This case suggests that VMs located in the gastrointestinal tract may lead to ISIH and ultrasonic gastroscopy is helpful in the diagnosis of VMs in the gastrointestinal tract.

Multifocal Small Bowel Angioectasias: Managed with Innovative, Nonresectional Surgical Procedure

Gastrointestinal (GI) angioectasias/angiodysplasias are the most frequent vascular lesions of GI tract, responsible for ∼5 to 6% of GI bleedings. It commonly involves the small bowel, making it difficult to diagnose and manage endoscopically. Though medical management has been used to prevent bleeding, it has only a limited role in acute severe hemorrhage. In such cases, surgical resection remains the only practical option. However, multiple lesions pose a unique challenge, as resection may not be advisable for long length of bowel involvement. Here, we report a case of recurrent GI bleeding due to multifocal small bowel angioectasias who was managed by a novel technique of full-thickness transmural sutures under intraoperative enteroscopic guidance. At 6 months follow-up, no new bleeding episodes were observed.

Pathophysiology and therapeutic management of anemia in gastrointestinal disorders

INTRODUCTION

Anemia is a common complication of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, with a prevalence up to 60% in celiac disease (CeD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most prevalent form of anemia in these conditions, but chronic inflammation and vitamin B12 deficiency represent other common contributing mechanisms, especially in IBD.

AREAS COVERED

We discuss the pathogenesis of anemia in various medical GI disorders, the sometime problematic distinction between IDA, anemia of inflammation (AI) and the association of the two, and therapeutic and preventive measures that can be useful for the management of anemia in GI disorders. Unfortunately, with the exception of IDA and AI in IBD, large RCT concerning the treatment of anemia in GI disorders are lacking.

EXPERT OPINION

Anemia management strategies in GI disorders are outlined, with a focus on the main prevention, diagnostic, and therapeutic measures. Specific problems and situations such as the role of gluten-free diet for IDA treatment in CeD, the choice between oral and parenteral supplementation of iron or vitamin B12 in carential anemias, the use of endoscopic procedures to stop bleeding in intestinal angiodysplasia and preventive/treatment strategies for NSAID-associated GI bleeding are discussed.

Anemia induced by hemangioma at the duodenal papilla, resected by endoscopic mucosal resection

A 7-year-old ever healthy girl presented to our hospital with anemia for half-a-year, and her lowest hemoglobin level was 75g/L. She denied any hematemesis or melena, however her fecal occult blood test was positive. Computed tomography revealed an oval lesion in the descending duodenum.

Evaluation and Validation of a New Score to Measure the Severity of Small Bowel Angiodysplasia on Video Capsule Endoscopy

INTRODUCTION

Angiodysplasias are responsible of 50% of small bowel bleeding. An endoscopic method that allows measuring its severity is not available.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to validate a new endoscopic score with VCE to measure the severity of small bowel angiodysplasias (SBAD).

METHODS

Four endoscopists independently reviewed VCE videos of 22 patients with SBAD. The score graded 3 variables: A - extent of lesions: E1, located in one half of the intestine and E2, in both halves; B - number of lesions: N1, <5; N2, 5-10; and N3, >10 lesions; C - probability of bleeding: P1, pale red spots; P2, bright red spots; P3, bleeding stigmata; and P4, active bleeding. Capsule Endoscopy Small Bowel Angiodysplasia Activity Index (CESBAI) was calculated as follows: E × 1 + N × 2 + P × 3. Interobserver variability was analyzed by Spearman's correlation and agreement Kappa statistic tests.

RESULTS

The mean CESBAI scores by observers were O1= 11.6 ± 4.1; O2 = 11.3 ± 4.8; O3 = 11.1 ± 4.9; and O4 = 11.8 ± 4.2 (p > 0.05). Spearman's correlation values of CESBAI between every 2 observers were from 0.61 to 0.94 (p < 0.001) with a global correlation of 0.73 among all observers. Kappa values of CESBAI between every 2 observers ranged from 0.42 to 0.87 (p < 0.001) with a global agreement of 0.57 among all observers. All evaluators stated that the method was easy to use.

CONCLUSIONS

CESBAI is a reliable and reproducible score. Nevertheless, these results must be validated in other studies with larger population before assessing its power for predicting bleeding recurrence.

Diagnosis and treatment of malignant-appearing arteriovenous malformation

Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract, and presentation can range from asymptomatic to massive gastrointestinal hemorrhage. This case highlights a unique presentation of AVMs. During a screening colonoscopy, a 5-cm mass was discovered in the transverse colon encompassing 25% to 50% of the circumference of the lumen. Biopsies showed polypoid AVM with overlying inflammatory polyps without evidence of malignancy or dysplasia. There are many treatment options for AVM removal. In this case, since suspicion for malignancy was high, the patient underwent surgery and will be closely monitored.

Therapeutic Opportunities for Intestinal Angioectasia- Targeting PPARγ and Oxidative Stress

Recurrent and acute bleeding from intestinal tract angioectasia (AEC) presents a major challenge for clinical intervention. Current treatments are empiric, with frequent poor clinical outcomes. Improvements in understanding the pathophysiology of these lesions will help guide treatment. Using data from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), we analyzed 12 million patient reports to identify drugs inversely correlated with gastrointestinal bleeding and potentially limiting AEC severity. FAERS analysis revealed that drugs used in patients with diabetes and those targeting PPARγ-related mechanisms were associated with decreased AEC phenotypes (P < 0.0001). Electronic health records (EHRs) at University of Cincinnati Hospital were analyzed to validate FAERS analysis. EHR data showed a 5.6% decrease in risk of AEC and associated phenotypes in patients on PPARγ agonists. Murine knockout models of AEC phenotypes were used to construct a gene-regulatory network of candidate drug targets and pathways, which revealed that wound healing, vasculature development and regulation of oxidative stress were impacted in AEC pathophysiology. Human colonic tissue was examined for expression differences across key pathway proteins, PPARγ, HIF1α, VEGF, and TGFβ1. In vitro analysis of human AEC tissues showed lower expression of PPARγ and TGFβ1 compared with controls (0.55 ± 0.07 and 0.49 ± 0.05). National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) RNA-Seq data was analyzed to substantiate human tissue findings. This integrative discovery approach showing altered expression of key genes involved in oxidative stress and injury repair mechanisms presents novel insight into AEC etiology, which will improve targeted mechanistic studies and more optimal medical therapy for AEC.

Diffuse telangiectasia of the colon: A case report

RATIONALE

Colonic telangiectasia, also known as colonic angiodysplasia, refers to arteriovenous malformations that occur in the colon, which are common vascular lesions in the GI tract.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a patient, who was admitted to our hospital for colonoscopy.

DIAGNOSES

Under a microscope, all the segments of the whole colon and the varicose veins showed multiple flaky spider-like telangiectasia changes. The blood vessels were radially distributed and converged in the center. The largest blood vessel was about 10 mm in diameter and had a smooth surface with no ulcers, erosion, or bleeding.

INTERVENTIONS

It was recommended that the patient undergo a capsule endoscopy to examine small intestine.

OUTCOMES

The patient did not agree to endoscopy for personal reasons. During the follow-up half a year later, the patient had no melena with normal range of hemoglobin and red blood cell counts. The fecal occult blood test came out negative.

LESSONS

While the etiology of colonic telangiectasia remains unclear, it is common in the elderly, and is more associated with geriatric conditions and diseases, especially atherosclerotic diseases. Patients who are diagnosed with colonic telangiectasia but are asymptomatic, do not need further treatment. It is usually recommended to monitor the color of stool and check the hemoglobin and fecal occult blood regularly. Colonoscopy is the main method of diagnosis of colonic telangiectasia, and the positive rate is greater than 90%. This procedure should be performed when there is no bleeding or a small amount of bleeding.

Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome with the complication of intussusception: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is an extremely rare disorder characterized by multifocal venous malformations involving various organs such as the skin and gastrointestinal tract. Severe complications of BRBNS, such as intussusception, volvulus, and intestinal infarction are rarer and require surgery. This report describes a 33-year-old male of BRBNS complicated with intussusception that was successfully diagnosed and treated with surgery.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 33-year-old Chinese man presented with persistent, colicky pain accompanied by nausea, abdominal distension, and dizziness. The patient presented with sporadic bluish nodules on his skin involving his head, neck, thorax, abdomen, and planta pedis.

DIAGNOSES

BRBNS with the complication of intussusception.

INTERVENTIONS

An emergency laparotomy was performed, and postoperative management included blood transfusions and oral iron supplementation for 2 weeks.

OUTCOMES

The patient's postoperative course of hospitalization was uneventful. During the 4-month follow-up, the patient showed no signs of intussusception recurrence.

LESSONS

Patients diagnosed with BRBNS who present with acute abdominal pain and distension should raise suspicion for the presence of intussusception, which requires emergent surgical intervention.

Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to isolated diffuse venous malformations in the gastrointestinal tract: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Isolated gastrointestinal venous malformations (GIVMs) are extremely rare congenital developmental abnormalities of the venous vasculature. Because of their asymptomatic nature, the diagnosis is often quite challenging. However, as symptomatic GIVMs have nonspecific clinical manifestations, misdiagnosis is very common. Here, we report a case of isolated diffuse GIVMs inducing mechanical intestinal obstruction. A literature review was also conducted to summarize clinical features, diagnostic points, treatment selections and differential diagnosis in order that doctors may have a comprehensive understanding of this disease.

CASE SUMMARY

A 50-year-old man presented with recurrent painless gastrointestinal bleeding for two months and failure to pass flatus and defecate with nausea and vomiting for ten days. Digital rectal examination found bright red blood and soft nodular masses 3 cm above the anal verge. Computed tomography showed that part of the descending colon and rectosigmoid colon was thickened with phleboliths in the intestinal wall. Colonoscopy exhibited bluish and reddish multinodular submucosal masses and flat submucosal serpentine vessels. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed anechoic cystic spaces within intestinal wall. The lesions were initially thought to be isolated VMs involving part of the descending colon and rectosigmoid colon. Laparoscopic subtotal proctocolectomy, pull-through transection and coloanal anastomosis and ileostomy were performed. Histopathology revealed intact mucosa and dilated, thin-walled blood vessels in the submucosa, muscularis, and serosa involving the entire colorectum. The patient recovered with complete symptomatic relief during the 52-mo follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of isolated GIVMs is challenging. The information presented here is significant for the diagnosis and management of symptoms.

Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of gastrointestinal angiodysplasias: A critical review and view points

Gastrointestinal angiodysplasias (GIADs), also called angioectasias, are the most frequent vascular lesions. Its precise prevalence is unknown since most of them are asymptomatic. However, the incidence may be increasing since GIADs affect individuals aged more than 60 years and population life expectancy is globally increasing worldwide. They are responsible of about 5% to 10% of all gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) cases. Most GIADs are placed in small bowel, where are the cause of 50 to 60% of obscure GIB diagnosed with video capsule endoscopy. They may be the cause of fatal severe bleeding episodes; nevertheless, recurrent overt or occult bleeding episodes requiring repeated expensive treatments and disturbing patient’s quality-of-life are more frequently observed. Diagnosis and treatment of GIADs (particularly those placed in small bowel) are a great challenge due to insidious disease behavior, inaccessibility to affected sites and limitations of available diagnostic procedures. Hemorrhagic causality out of the actively bleeding lesions detected by diagnostic procedures may be difficult to establish. No treatment guidelines are currently available, so there is a high variability in the management of these patients. In this review, the epidemiology and pathophysiology of GIADs and the status in the diagnosis and treatment, with special emphasis on small bowel angiodysplasias based on multiple publications, are critically discussed. In addition, a classification of GIADs based on their endoscopic characteristics is proposed. Finally, some aspects that need to be clarified in future research studies are highlighted.

Efficacy of Therapeutic Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal Lesion (GI): A network meta-analysis

Objective:

Endoscopic therapy can reduce the risks of rebleeding, continued bleeding, need for surgery, and mortality. The objective of this systematic review was to compare the different modalities of endoscopic therapy for GI bleeding.

Methods:

Studies were identified by searching electronic databases MEDLINE. We selected all available clinical studies published after 2000 that assessed efficacy and/or safety of different endoscopic hemostatic techniques in treating GI bleeding. The outcomes evaluated included initial hemostasis, rebleeding rate, and 30-day all-cause mortality. Network meta-analyses were performed to summarize the treatment effects.

Results:

Total 20 studies involving 1845 patients were evaluated. Ten different treatment categories including mechanic, ablative, injection, and combined therapy were compared in our analysis in terms of their efficacy in stopping bleeding and complications. Band ligation [rate: 0.757; 95% Credible Interval (0.565, 0.887)] and injection therapy [rate: 0.891; 95% CI (0.791, 0.944)] had inferior efficacy in attaining initial hemostasis compared to others. Combined therapy of band ligation and HPC and hemoclip may represent the best options for preventing rebleeding and mortality respectively. No significant difference was found among other treatments in terms of complications.

Conclusions:

We recommend the application of hemoclips in treating GI bleeding due to its high hemostasis efficacy and low risk of 30-day mortality.

A Risk Assessment of Factors for the Presence of Angiodysplasias During Endoscopy and Factors Contributing to Symptomatic Bleeding and Rebleeds

BACKGROUND

Few studies have assessed factors associated with angiodysplasias during endoscopy or factors associated with symptomatic disease.

AIMS

To evaluate risk factors for the presence of and contribution to symptomatic disease in patients with angiodysplasias.

METHODS

We performed a systematic MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library search according to the PRISMA guidelines for studies assessing risk factors involved in angiodysplasias detected during endoscopy and factors that lead to anemia or overt bleeding. Study quality was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A risk assessment was performed by selecting risk factors identified by two independent studies and/or by a large effect size.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies involving 92,634 participants were included. The overall quality of the evidence was moderate. Risk factors for the diagnosis of angiodysplasias during endoscopy confirmed by at least two studies were increasing age (OR 1.09 per year, 95% CI 1.04-1.1), chronic kidney disease (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.9-10.5) and cardiovascular disease (2.9, 95% CI 1.4-6.2). The risk of rebleeds was higher in the presence of multiple lesions (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.1-16.2 and 3.8, 95% CI 1.3-11.3 and 8.6, 95% CI 1.4-52.6), liver cirrhosis (OR 4.0, 95% 1.1-15.0) and prothrombin time < 30% (OR 4.2, 95% 1.1-15.4) with a moderate effect size. Multiple comorbidities were associated with an increased in-hospital mortality (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.2-4.3).

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review identified age, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease as the most important risk factors for the diagnosis of angiodysplasias during endoscopy. Multiple lesions increase the risk of recurrent bleeding.

An overview of angiodysplasia: management and patient prospects

Gastrointestinal angiodysplasias (GIADs) have a wide variety of presentations, which can be significant and debilitating in a subset of patients. Endoscopic ablation is currently the most effective treatment for GIADs, however re-bleeding rates are high. Several medical have been used for GIADs and reported in the literature, however these medications have significant side effect profiles and randomized controlled trials are lacking. A relatively poor understanding of the pathophysiology of GIAD formation has limited the development of more effective treatments and improved diagnostic and prognostic markers for GIAD. However, recent advances in research in the area of angiogenesis have identified a potential role for certain angiogenic factors including Angiopoeitin 1 and 2, in the pathophysiology of GIAD. Areas covered: We performed an extensive pubmed search of all articles mentioning GIAD and summarized our findings focussing on patient management and prospects. We summarize the available literature regarding the medical, endoscopic, and radiological management of GIAD and the value of clinical prognostic factors. Expert commentary: Although the area of angiogenesis is a novel area of research in GIAD, it represents an exciting avenue for development with the potential to improve diagnostic and prognostic tools to improve patient outcome.

Small intestine polypoid arteriovenous malformation: a stepwise approach to diagnosis in a paediatric case

We report a case of acute gastrointestinal haemorrhage due to a small intestine polypoid arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in a patient with a remote history of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) 8 years earlier. The diagnosis of a small intestine AVM was made using video capsule endoscopy (VCE) and confirmed using single-balloon push enteroscopy. The lesion was marked with submucosal tattoo to aid in subsequent surgical resection of the lesion with primary duodenoduodenostomy. Since our patient's initial bleeding episode, a variety of advanced tools have become widely available to aid in the localisation of OGIB. This case illustrates the use of a stepwise approach using new medical technology to identify and manage OGIB in children. VCE and push enteroscopy proved to be important diagnostic modalities in this paediatric case.

Pharmacological treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding due to angiodysplasias: A position paper of the Italian Society of Gastroenterology (SIGE)

Angioectasias (AD) belong to benign vascular malformations of the gastrointestinal tract and are responsible for about 4-7% of upper non variceal bleeding, 30-40% of small bowel occult bleeding and 3-40% of colonic bleeding episodes. Gastrointestinal haemorrhage secondary to AD represents an important diagnostic and therapeutic problem that negatively impacts on the quality of life of patients and heath care costs. Endoscopic interventions are the mainstay in both diagnosis and treatment of vascular malformations. However, in a substantial percentage of the cases, age of the patients, comorbidities, clinical severity of anaemia and blood loss as well as size, site and number of lesions prevent this therapeutic approach. Hormonal therapy, thalidomide and somatostatin analogues have been investigated for their potential role as rescue therapies in controlling AD bleeding although, thus far, no recommendations have been provided on their use in this clinical setting. In order to implement appropriate prescription of pharmacological agents to manage gastrointestinal bleeding due to ADs, the Italian Society of Gastroenterology (SIGE) nominated a panel of experts who reviewed the available clinical literature and produced practical clinical recommendations.

Small bowel bleeding: cause and the role of endoscopy and medical therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The objective is to provide an overview on the cause of small bowel bleeding. We discuss the role of small bowel endoscopy in the management of small bowel bleeding and provide an outline of pharmacotherapy that can be additionally beneficial.

RECENT FINDINGS

Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) is the initial diagnostic investigation of choice in small bowel bleeding. Computed tomography (CT) can be helpful in the context of small bowel tumours. Device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE) enables several therapeutic procedures such as argon plasma coagulation (APC) and haemoclip application. It can also guide further management with histology or by marking culprit lesions with India ink. A persistent rate of rebleeding despite APC is increasingly being reported. Pharmacotherapy has an emerging role in the management of small bowel bleeding. Somatostatin analogues are a well tolerated class of drugs that can play an additional role in the management of refractory bleeding secondary to small bowel angioectasias.

SUMMARY

SBCE is useful in determining the cause of small bowel bleeding. DAE offers an endoscopic therapeutic approach to small bowel bleeding replacing surgery and intraoperative enteroscopy. Pharmacotherapy, in addition to endotherapy, can play an important role in the management of multifocal, recurring bleeding small bowel lesions.

Emerging role of thalidomide in the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding

Thalidomide was initially synthesised in 1954 and marketed as a sedative and antiemetic for morning sickness. It was withdrawn in 1961 due to the realisation that it was teratogenic with over 10 000 children born with congenital abnormalities. Since then it has been used for treatment of dermatological and oncological conditions, including myeloma. In 1994, it was found to have a potent antiangiogenic effect via downregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This has led to its use in gastrointestinal bleeding, as vascular abnormalities such as angiodysplasia have been found to have elevated VEGF levels. This article will review the current evidence of the use of thalidomide in bleeding associated with gastrointestinal vascular malformations, including angiodysplasia, gastric cancer and radiation-induced proctitis.

Role of Octreotide in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Bleeding Secondary to Angiodysplasia in Children With Right Heart Failure

OBJECTIVES

Angiodysplasia (AD) is a relatively uncommon cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in children and may be seen in right heart failure. Octreotide has been used successfully in adult patients with gastrointestinal bleeding due to ADs.

METHODS

We describe 2 patients who had congenital heart disease with right heart failure and gastrointestinal bleeding from AD.

RESULTS

AD lesions were documented on traditional endoscopy and capsule endoscopy. Bleeding resolved after initiation of IV octreotide and did not recur on subcutaneous octreotide during the 2-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the successful outcomes in the 2 patients, a trial of octreotide may be considered in pediatric patients who present with gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to AD.

Von Willebrand factor and angiogenesis: basic and applied issues

The recent discovery that von Willebrand factor (VWF) regulates blood vessel formation has opened a novel perspective on the function of this complex protein. VWF was discovered as a key component of hemostasis, capturing platelets at sites of endothelial damage and synthesized in megakaryocytes and endothelial cells (EC). In recent years, novel functions and binding partners have been identified for VWF. The finding that loss of VWF in EC results in enhanced, possibly dysfunctional, angiogenesis is consistent with the clinical observations that in some patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD), vascular malformations can cause severe gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that VWF can regulate angiogenesis through multiple pathways, both intracellular and extracellular, although their relative importance is still unclear. Investigation of these pathways has been greatly facilitated by the ability to isolate EC from progenitors circulating in the peripheral blood of normal controls and patients with VWD. In the next few years, these will yield further evidence on the molecular pathways controlled by VWF and shed light on this novel and fascinating area of vascular biology. In this article, we will review the evidence supporting a role for VWF in blood vessel formation, the link between VWF dysfunction and vascular malformations causing GI bleeding and how they may be causally related. Finally, we will discuss how these findings point to novel therapeutic approaches to bleeding refractory to VWF replacement therapy in VWD.

Evaluation of the efficacy of therapeutic endoscopy in gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to angiodysplasias

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal angiodysplasias are defined as vascular dilations that communicate capillaries and veins in the walls of the digestive tract. The clinical presentation of these lesions varies from chronic occult bleeding to severe gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

AIM

The primary aim of our study was to analyze lesion location, the efficacy of therapeutic endoscopy with argon plasma coagulation, and the factors associated with rebleeding in patients with gastrointestinal angiodysplasias.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 32,042 endoscopies was carried out within the time frame of January 2012 and December 2013 at our hospital center. Gastrointestinal angiodysplasia was the diagnosis in 331 of the endoscopies. The procedures included upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and enteroscopy.

RESULTS

The most frequent location of the angiodysplasias was the cecum (49%), followed by the ascending colon (17%) and the sigmoid colon (16%). They were most frequently found in the duodenum (60%) and gastric body (49%) at upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Therapeutic endoscopy was performed in 163 cases (49.8%) and the most predominant methods were fulguration with argon (90%) and combination treatment (argon plasma coagulation and injection sclerotherapy) (6.7%). The macroscopic rebleeding rate after therapeutic endoscopy was 7.4%. Patients that had rebleeding presented with a lower hemoglobin concentration, higher mean age, and the presence of multiple angiodysplasias at endoscopy (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Therapeutic endoscopy was performed in 49.8% of the patients with angiodysplasias. The macroscopic rebleeding rate after treatment was 7.4%. There were statistically significant differences in the patients with rebleeding in relation to mean age, hemoglobin values, and the presence of multiple angiodysplasias.

Beyond hepatic hemangiomas: the diverse appearances of gastrointestinal and genitourinary hemangiomas

Hemangiomas are common lesions, best known for their appearance in the liver. Their appearance in less common locations, such as the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, is less well known. We will review the typical and atypical appearance of hemangiomas in these locations on sonography, CT, and MRI.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for silent gastric Dieulafoy lesions mimicking gastrointestinal stromal tumors: Report of 7 cases-a case report series

BACKGROUND

Dieulafoy lesion is a rare but serious cause of gastrointestinal hemorrhage. However, some cases can be occasionally found without bleeding during the endoscopic screening, and the management remains unclear. The aim of this article was to report the efficacy and safety of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for silent gastric Dieulafoy lesions, which presented as protrusion lesions mimicking gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).

METHODS

Data from the patients with gastric protrusion lesions who underwent ESD from September 2008 to April 2016 in General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, China were recorded. Seven cases with pathological diagnosis of Dieulafoy lesion without bleeding were enrolled for further analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 7 patients (2 males and 5 females) with mean age of 57.7 ± 4.15 years were pathologically diagnosed as Dieulafoy lesion. Four of the lesions were located in gastric antrum, 2 in the fundus, and 1 in the body of stomach, respectively. The mean sizes of the Dieulafoy lesions under white light endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) were 1.06 ± 0.28 and 0.84 ± 0.29 cm. The origins of these lesions were submucosa (6/7, 85.7%) and muscularis propria (1/7, 14.3%). Three of them appeared with mixed echo under EUS, 3 with hypoechogenicity, and 1 with hyperechogenicity. En bloc complete resection was achieved in all the lesions by ESD with average time of 76.00 ± 16.86 minutes, and no intraoperative bleeding happened. In addition, all patients were followed up for 1 to 53 months, and no recurrence or long-term complications was observed.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, ESD can be an effective and safe treatment for silent gastric Dieulafoy lesions with clinical presentations of submucosal protrusion lesions mimicking GISTs.

Effective treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding with thalidomide - Chances and limitations

For more than 50 years bleeding from gastrointestinal angiodysplasias has been treated by hormonal therapy with estrogens and progesterons. After a randomized study finally demonstrated that hormones have no effect on bleeding events and transfusion requirements, therapy has switched to endoscopic coagulation. However, angiodysplasias tend to recur over months to years and endoscopy often has to be repeated for long time periods. Thalidomide, which caused severe deformities in newborn children in the 1960s, is now increasingly used after it was shown to suppress tumor necrosis factor alpha, inhibit angiogenesis and to be also effective for treatment of multiple myeloma. In 2011 thalidomide was proven to be highly effective for treatment of bleeding from gastrointestinal angiodysplasias in a randomized study. Further evidence by uncontrolled studies exists that thalidomide is also useful for treatment of bleeding in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. In spite of this data, endoscopic therapy remains the treatment of choice in many hospitals, as thalidomide is still notorious for its teratogenicity. However, patients with gastrointestinal bleeding related to angiodysplasias are generally at an age in which women have no child-bearing potential. Teratogenicity is therefore no issue for these elderly patients. Other side-effects of thalidomide like neurotoxicity may limit treatment options but can be monitored safely.

Cephalic pancreaticoduodenectomy for bleeding duodenal arteriovenous malformation

Introduction Treatment of recurrent severe gastrointestinal bleeding due to arteriovenous malformations may require complex resections. In some particular locations, extensive surgery is the only way out, as shown in this report.

Case Report A 2.5-year-old child suffered repeated episodes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding since the first month of life. After an extensive diagnostic workout, the diagnosis of duodenal arteriovenous malformation was established. Cephalic pancreaticoduodenectomy with pyloric preservation was performed and no further episodes of bleeding occurred in the ensuing 2 years.

Conclusion Bleeding malformations located in the pancreaticoduodenal area can be effectively treated in children by pylorus-preserving cephalic pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Clinical features and endoscopic findings in patients with actively bleeding colonic angiodysplasia

Colonic angiodysplasia (AGD) is an important cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. However, most episodes of bleeding from colonic AGD stop spontaneously. To date, few data are available regarding the endoscopic findings of bleeding colonic AGD. In order to clarify the clinical features and endoscopic findings of actively bleeding colonic AGD, we conducted a retrospective study of patients treated with colonoscopy at our hospital. From November 2006 to March 2013 inclusive, 32,586 colonoscopies were performed at this hospital, among which 13 patients with bleeding colonic AGD were enrolled in the current study. The mean age was 84 years (range: 69-90 years). All patients had chronic heart disease and were currently using anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet drugs. Sites of bleeding AGD were localized in the left colon in two patients (15 %) and in the right colon in the remaining patients (85 %). A total of 77 % of the lesions (10/13) were 1-2 mm in size and two lesions were 4 mm in size; only one lesion was larger than 5 mm. Endoscopic treatment resulted in a therapeutic success rate of 100 %, and no recurrence of bleeding was observed in 85 % of the patients (11/13) after treatment. During the study period, two patients presented with bleeding from residual AGD and underwent endoscopic treatment. In the present study, most sites of bleeding colonic AGD were very small, termed "micro-angiodysplasia", and targeted endoscopic treatment for actively bleeding AGD was found to be effective and safe. It is essential that physicians consider the potential for actively bleeding colonic AGD, especially "micro-angiodysplasia", when performing colonoscopy in elderly patients with a history of cardiovascular disease and/or treatment with anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy.

Polypoid arteriovenous malformation presenting with jejunojejunal intussusceptions in an adult

Jejunal polypoid arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and jejunojejunal intussusceptions are both rare. Here, we present the case of a 61-year-old woman who suffered intermittent episodes of abdominal pain over the course of 13 years. A computed tomography scan of her abdomen and pelvis revealed a distal jejunojejunal intussusception. A suspected low density mass was observed at the tip of the intussusception. Treatment comprised laparoscopic small bowel resection with end-to-end jejunostomy. The final diagnosis was a polypoid AVM measuring 5×3.5×3 cm. We suggest that polypoid AVM should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with small intestinal neoplasms.

Long acting release-octreotide as "rescue" therapy to control angiodysplasia bleeding: A retrospective study of 98 cases

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal angiodysplasias are an important cause of difficult to manage bleeding, especially in older patients.

AIM

To retrospectively evaluate the long-term efficacy of long acting release-octreotide in controlling angiodysplasia bleeding.

METHODS

98 patients with a history of bleeding due to gastrointestinal angiodysplasias lasting over 2 years were retrospectively selected among those treated from January 2000 to December 2008. All patients had received octreotide 0.1mg tid for 28 days and, then from day 14, long acting release-octreotide 20mg monthly, for 6 months.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 78 months. In all patients mean haemoglobin levels significantly increased and the number of bleeding episodes, hospitalizations, patients requiring blood transfusions and units of transfused red cells significantly decreased, compared to the two-year observation period before starting therapy. According to outcome patients were classified as: 40 full responders (40.8%), 32 relapsers (32.6%) and 26 poor responders (26.5%). At multivariate analysis age >65 years, male sex, chronic antiplatelet therapy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic renal failure were the only covariates independently associated with poor response to therapy.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that long acting release-octreotide could be used as rescue therapy to control bleeding due to gastrointestinal angiodysplasias in patients not suitable for endoscopic or surgical treatments.

Thalidomide-induced angiopoietin 2, Notch1 and Dll4 downregulation under hypoxic condition in tissues with gastrointestinal vascular malformation and human umbilical vein endothelial cells

OBJECTIVE

To determine the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal vascular malformation (GIVM) and the mechanism of thalidomide in treating GIVM by evaluating the expression of angiopoietin 2 (Ang2), Notch1, delta-like ligand 4 (Dll4) and hypoxia inducible factor 1α (Hif-1α).

METHODS

Data of 10 patients with histology-confirmed GIVM were reviewed. Immunohistochemistry of surgically resected GIVM tissues and the adjacent mucosa of the patients and normal tissues from those who had undergone colonoscopy for health examination was performed to examine the expressions of Ang2, Notch1, Dll4 and Hif-1α. In addition, in vitro effect of thalidomide on Ang2, Notch1 and Dll4 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and on HUVEC proliferation was also investigated during normoxic and hypoxic conditions.

RESULTS

GIVM lesions presented as tortuous, dilated arterioles, venules and capillaries. Ang2, Notch1 and Dll4 showed strong immunoreactivity in the cytoplasm and nuclei of GIVM lesions but negative or weak positivity in the intestinal mucosa of the adjacent tissues and normal mucosa. Under hypoxic condition the expressions of Hif-1α, Ang2, Notch1 and Dll4 were upregulated and the tube formation was more abundant with a greater diameter of tubes. Moreover, thalidomide downregulated their expression in HUVEC and HUVEC proliferation decreased in a concentration-dependent manner under both hypoxic and normoxic conditions.

CONCLUSION

Ang2, Notch1, Dll4 and Hif-1α may play an important role in the pathogenesis of GIVM and may be potential targets of thalidomide in the treatment of the disease.