Gastric antral vascular ectasia: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

We present an 83-yr-old woman with a history of renal insufficiency, diabetes and idiopathic purpura (ITP) who experienced recurrent hemorrhage from gastric antral vascular ectasias (GAVE).

Methods: Extensive evaluation consisting of barium small bowel series, colonoscopy, abdominal CT scan and visceral angiography excluded other causes of bleeding.

Results: After 99mTc-labeled red cell imaging to localize the bleeding to the antrum, an antrectomy was performed. Seven months postsurgery, the patient experienced no further hemorrhage.

Conclusion: 99mTc-labeled red cell scans can be used for the diagnosis of GAVE.