S3584 Endoscopic Evaluation in a Patient with Post-Bulbar Duodenal Ulcer and Stricture

Abstract

Introduction: Gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is the least frequent complication of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in the US after bleeding and perforation. Ulcers located in the pyloric region and duodenum are most causative of GOO. PUD has decreased since the advent of PPI and eradication of Helicobacter pylori. Although most patients have typical ulcer symptoms prior to the development of complications, asymptomatic ulcers necessitate the need for endoscopic evaluation. Early suspicion and endoscopic evaluation can assist with the prompt management of this complication. Case Description/Methods: 71 year-old white male evaluated for a 5 week history of abdominal pain, nausea, post-prandial vomiting, 35 pound weight loss. Denied the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Medical history is significant for type 2 diabetes mellitus current tobacco use and hypertension. No prior history of PUD. Physical exam was notable for epigastric tenderness and muscle wasting. Contrasted Abdominopelvic CT showed questionable diverticulum in the second portion of the duodenum and no evidence of pancreatic mass. Endoscopic evaluation showed severe erosive esophagitis, a pinhole stricture in the duodenal bulb with the appearance of a benign peptic stricture. The duodenal stricture was unable to be traversed with a standard gastroscope. With fluoroscopic guidance, the stricture was dilated progressively with a balloon to 6mm, 8mm and 10mm. Biopsies were obtained and the stricture was then traversed with a pediatric scope. After endoscopic evaluation, it was determined that the duodenal stricture was not amenable to durable endoscopic intervention. Pathology, negative for Helicobacter pylori and malignancy. Patient subsequently underwent an exploratory laparotomy and gastrojejunostomy with gastro-jejunal tube placement. Patient continued to improve and was discharged to continue tube feeding at home, outpatient follow up with gastroenterology and surgery. Discussion: Endoscopy plays a critical role in the evaluation and management of patients with symptoms concerning for post bulbar duodenal ulcer, stricture and gastric outlet obstruction. Silent ulcers and complications are more prevalent in older patients. Early detection, evaluation and treatment of GOO could improve disease related morbidity and mortality. Risk modification which consists of tobacco cessation, treating post bulbar ulcers, duodenal ulcers and Helicobacter pylori infection could improve the GOO trends.Figure 1.: Severe Duodenal Stenosis.