3055 Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Hematochezia

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SRUS) is an uncommon rectal disorder that may result in severe rectal bleeding. The term solitary rectal ulcer syndrome is a misnomer. Endoscopic findings in patients with SRUS can range from mucosal erythema alone to single or multiple ulcers and polypoid mass lesions. Here, we present a rare case of severe hematochezia occurring secondary to a solitary rectal ulcer. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: The patient is a 37 year-old male with a medical history of alcohol abuse who presented to our emergency department complaining of three episodes of hematochezia accompanied by dizziness and lightheadedness that began the night prior. Notable workup in the emergency department included a complete blood count (CBC) showing a hemoglobin of 12.5 gm/dL. A fecal occult blood test was also done which returned positive. This was followed by a repeat CBC showing an acute drop in the hemoglobin to 9.8 gm/dL. The gastroenterology service was then consulted and performed a colonoscopy. This was done and showed a large cratered ulcer about two centimeters in size and a non-bleeding visible vessel noted approximately five centimeters from the anal verge (Figure 1). These were treated with BiCAP cautery and the three hemostatic clips. Biopsies were not taken given the high risk of bleeding and emergent nature of the procedure. After the procedure the patient remained hemodynamically stable with no further drops in hemoglobin. He was then discharged with follow up appointments for repeat colonoscopy. DISCUSSION: SRUS is an oftentimes-misdiagnosed condition. The prevalence of SRUS is not clear, but has an estimated incidence of 1 in 100,000 people per year. Its diagnosis can usually be accomplished through a combination of symptomatology, endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and the histologic finding of fibromuscular obliteration of the lamina propria. The pathogenesis if SRUS is not well known, but various factors contribute to its development. This includes straining, self-induced trauma, paradoxical contraction of puborectalis muscle and rectal prolapse, and intussusception. Treatment of SRUS is based on the symptoms and severity. Asymptomatic patient treatment options include dietary modification, patient education, and behavioral modification. Endoscopic treatment can be applied to control bleeding and allows the clinician to obtain a biopsy specimen. Surgical treatment is recommended for those who have full thickness and rectal prolapse.