Gastrocolic fistula, a rare complication of benign gastric ulcer: report of a case.

Abstract

A 46-year-old Caucasian man was admitted to the hospital on July 26, 1972 , with generalized abdominal pain and diarrhea. The patient estimated that he had sustained a 35-pound weight loss over the previous six weeks. The remainder of the history was unremarkable. Mild epigastric tenderness and hyperactive bowel sounds were the only significant physical findings. Laboratory data on admission were within normal limits except for hemoglobin of 9.6 g/100 ml. Results of hematologic evaluation, including bonemarrow studies, suggested an iron-deficiency anemia. Electrocardiogram and chest x-ray were normal. Intravenous pyelogram was interpreted as mild nephrocalcinosis. The hospital course was one of progressive improvement with symptomatic treatment. The patient was discharged on August 5, 1972, to complete his work-up as an outpatient. On August 13, 1972, the patient was readmitted to the hospital because of shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, pallor, persistent lower abdominal cramping, and numerous loose stools. His weight loss approached 70 pounds. X-ray study of the upper gastrointestinal tract demonstrated a large ulcer on the greater curvature of the stomach communicating with the transverse