1966 Jejunal Submucosal Hemangioma as a Cause of Massive Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Case Report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Small intestinal hemangiomas are uncommon tumors that usually present with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). Hemangiomas account for only 0.05% of all intestinal tumors. The most common location in the small intestine is the mid-jejunum. Diagnosis, detection, and treatment can be challenging and may require surgery. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: An 81-year-old female presented to the emergency department with a one-week history of melena, associated with fatigue and palpitations. She denied hematemesis, hematochezia, NSAIDs use, or the use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents. Her vital signs were stable, and her physical examination was unremarkable except for lower limb edema. Hemoglobin was 4.7 g/dl, which was lower than her baseline of 8 g/dl. The patient was transfused to maintain her hemoglobin above 7 g/dl, and a proton pump inhibitor infusion was initiated. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed, and benign-appearing and non-bleeding polyps were detected in the gastric fundus and body. Colonoscopy did not detect significant abnormalities other than moderate diverticulosis, internal hemorrhoids and old melenic liquid throughout the colon but no active bleeding. Due to continued blood transfusion requirements, a video capsule endoscopy was performed, and active bleeding was detected. Push enteroscopy was performed, and a polypoid nodule with central umbilication and red spot was detected in the proximal jejunum [Figure 1]. The lesion was biopsied, and post-biopsy bleeding developed. Hemostasis was achieved by injection of epinephrine (1:10000 concentration) and application of three hemoclips. Subsequently, the patient underwent a laparoscopic segmental jejunal resection. Histologic examination of the resected specimen demonstrated a jejunal submucosal hemangioma with surrounding hemorrhage, an organizing hematoma, and no evidence of dysplasia or malignancy. DISCUSSION: Submucosal hemangiomas are a rare cause of GIB. They can present with melena and severe anemia. As the most common site is mid-jejunum, it is difficult to detect submucosal hemangiomas. In this case, the lesion was detected by video capsule endoscopy and was reached by push enteroscopy. Surgery is usually required for a definitive diagnosis and definitive treatment.