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Case Reports
. 2023 Aug;40(8):262-264.
doi: 10.12788/fp.0389. Epub 2023 Aug 18.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding Caused by Large Intestine Amyloidosis

Nikhil Seth  1 , Victoria A Jaeger  2 , Namisha Thapa  2 , James T Sing  2 , Christopher R Naumann  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

Gastrointestinal Bleeding Caused by Large Intestine Amyloidosis

Nikhil Seth et al. Fed Pract. 2023 Aug.

Abstract

Background: Amyloidosis is a rare disorder caused by abnormal folding of proteins, leading to the dysfunction of normal tissues. Amyloid deposition can affect several organs, but deposition in the large intestine is rare.

Case presentation: A 79-year-old man presented with gastrointestinal bleeding and nonspecific symptoms of weight loss, dry heaves, dysphagia, and weakness. The patient underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of intestinal amyloidosis.

Conclusions: This case report highlights the importance of a strong differential when working up gastrointestinal bleeding that includes amyloidosis. Early identification and multidisciplinary involvement are crucial for management and tailored care to each patient's needs.

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Conflict of interest statement

Author disclosures The authors report no actual or potential conflicts of interest or outside sources of funding with regard to this article.

Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Clot and Mass Seen on Colonoscopy Bulky clot-like masses can be seen protruding through the mucosa with patchy colitis and ulceration. A, Image taken approaching the mass. B, Largest mass areas and ulceration within it can be seen.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Biopsy of Masslike Structures A, Before Congo Red staining. B, With Congo Red staining (original magnification × 200).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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