Colonic Polypoid Vascular Ectasia in a Patient With Rectal Prolapse

Abstract

Vascular ectasia is a common cause of lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in older patients. They typically present as flat or slightly raised fern-like bright red lesions. We report a rare case of a vascular ectasia presenting as a pedunculated polypoid lesion in a young patient with rectal prolapse. The pedunculated polyp was removed using hot snare polypectomy. This case highlights a unique presentation of a rare lesion and endoscopic management of these lesions.

Keywords: colonoscopy; pedunculated polyp; polypectomy; rectal prolapse; vascular ectasia.

Figure 1. Endoscopic image in the distal sigmoid colon

This image demonstrates a 20 mm-pedunculated polyp with hyperemic mucosa and a long stalk.

Figure 2. Histopathologic examination image

Low-power photograph showing colonic type mucosa with surface erosion, reactive changes, and underlying submucosal dilated vascular spaces (vascular ectasia) in addition to a large thrombosed vascular space. 1X magnification.

Figure 3. Histopathologic examination image

Low-power photograph showing colonic type mucosa with underlying submucosal abnormally dilated congested vascular spaces consistent with vascular ectasia. 1X magnification.