Lower GI bleeding: epidemiology and management

Bowel Emergencies in Patients With Cancer

Cancer is the second most common cause of death worldwide. Bowel emergencies in patients with cancer are becoming increasingly more prevalent due to advances in cancer therapy and longer overall patient survival. When these patients present acutely, they are often frail and may have pre-existing co-morbidities. This article discusses the imaging features of bowel emergencies commonly encountered in oncological patients in clinical practice. These include chemotherapy related colitis, neutropenia enterocolitis and typhlitis, toxic megacolon, bowel perforation, malignant bowel obstruction and gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The radiologist plays a key role in identifying these oncological emergencies and guiding further management.

Advances in endoscopic management of colonic diverticular bleeding

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review is focused on diagnostic and management strategies for colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB). It aims to present the current state of the field, highlighting the available techniques, and emphasizing findings that influence the choice of therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent guidelines recommend nonurgent colonoscopy (>24 h) for CDB. However, factors such as a shock index ≥1, which may warrant an urgent colonoscopy, remain under investigation.The standard approach to detecting the source of CDB requires a water-jet scope equipped with a cap. Innovative diagnostic techniques, such as the long-cap and tapered-cap, have proven effective in identifying stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH). Furthermore, the water or gel immersion methods may aid in managing massive hemorrhage by improving the visualization and stabilization of the bleeding site for subsequent intervention. Innovations in endoscopic hemostasis have significantly improved the management of CDB. New therapeutic methods such as endoscopic band ligation and direct clipping have substantially diminished the incidence of recurrent bleeding. Recent reports also have demonstrated the efficacy of cutting-edge techniques such as over-the-scope clips, which have significantly improved outcomes in complex cases that have historically necessitated surgical intervention.

SUMMARY

Currently available endoscopic diagnostic and hemostatic methods for CDB have evolved with improved outcomes. Further research is necessary to refine the criteria for urgent colonoscopy and to confirm the effectiveness of new endoscopic hemostasis techniques.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding in COVID-19 Infected Patients, and Management Outcomes

Introduction

Gastrointestinal bleeding in COVID-19-infection poses unique challenges to patients owing to the high risk of concomitant respiratory failure. However, endoscopic care providers are prone to transmission. This study aimed to understand the risk and management outcomes of gastrointestinal bleeding in COVID-19-infected patients.

Methods

Data were abstracted from electronic patient medical records, using ICD 10 codes, and demographic and clinical data were collected, for COVID-19-infected patients who developed gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Complications related to COVID-19 infection and management outcomes of GI bleeding were studied. Statistically, descriptive analysis was used because of the small sample size.

Results

Eighteen COVID-19-infected patients developed episodes of GI bleeding, yielding a prevalence of 0.45%. Their mean age was 74.8 years, 55.5% were female, and 66.6% of patients (n=12) had upper GI bleeding symptoms, predominantly melena (55.5%), followed by coffee ground nasogastric aspirates (n=2). Only two patients (11.11%) had episodes of lower GI bleeding, and the remaining four patients (22.2%) had recurrent acute anemia requiring blood transfusion. The Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS) at presentation ranged between 6 to 16 (mean 8.8) and seven patients (38.8%) underwent endoscopic evaluation for GI bleeding. The predominant comorbid conditions included hypertension (22.2%), diabetes mellitus (27.7%), chronic kidney disease (50%), ischemic heart disease (33%), atrial fibrillation (11.1%), and peripheral vascular disease (11.1%). The median hospitalization was 24.6 days (range: 3-54 days). The 30-day mortality rate in our cohort was 22.2%, (4/18) mainly noted in older patients aged> 60 years with comorbid conditions and severe COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion

The prevalence of GI bleeding observed in our cohort was approximately 0.45%, significantly lower than the global prevalence observed, majority (66%) had upper GI bleeding. The exact reasons for the observed low prevalence of GI bleeding cannot be explained and will be the subject of future research.

[Gastrointestinal bleeding in old age]

Gastrointestinal bleeding is a frequent symptom, with increasing age as a risk factor. Upper, middle and lower gastrointestinal bleeding are differentiated depending on the location, whereby only upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding are elucidated in this article. The symptomatology varies depending on the localization of the bleeding. German and international clinical guidelines currently exist for the preclinical and clinical management of gastrointestinal bleeding. The main focus of the article is on pre-endoscopic management of upper gastrointestinal nonvariceal and variceal bleeding, including the risk stratification, transfusion and coagulation management as well as the initial pharmacological treatment. In addition, current developments in endoscopic and interventional treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding are highlighted.

Preclinical study of a novel ingestible bleeding sensor for upper gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a life-threatening condition that necessitates early identification and intervention and is associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic burden. However, several diagnostic challenges remain regarding risk stratification and the optimal timing of endoscopy. The PillSense System is a noninvasive device developed to detect blood in patients with UGIB in real time. This study aimed to assess the safety and performance characteristics of PillSense using a simulated bleeding model.

METHODS

A preclinical study was performed using an in vivo porcine model (14 animals). Fourteen PillSense capsules were endoscopically placed in the stomach and blood was injected into the stomach to simulate bleeding. The safety and sensitivity of blood detection and pill excretion were also investigated.

RESULTS

All the sensors successfully detected the presence or absence of blood. The minimum threshold was 9% blood concentration, with additional detection of increasing concentrations of up to 22.5% blood. All the sensors passed naturally through the gastrointestinal tract.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the ability of the PillSense System sensor to detect UGIB across a wide range of blood concentrations. This ingestible device detects UGIB in real time and has the potential to be an effective tool to supplement the current standard of care. These favorable results will be further investigated in future clinical studies.

Real-time multi-contrast magnetic particle imaging for the detection of gastrointestinal bleeding

Gastrointestinal bleeding, as a potentially life-threatening condition, is typically diagnosed by radiation-based imaging modalities like computed tomography or more invasively catheter-based angiography. Endoscopy enables examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract and the colon but not of the entire small bowel. Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) enables non-invasive, volumetric imaging without ionizing radiation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of detecting gastrointestinal bleeding by single- and multi-contrast MPI using human-sized organs. A 3D-printed small bowel phantom and porcine small bowel specimens were prepared with a defect within the bowel wall as the source of a bleeding. For multi-contrast MPI, the bowel lumen was filled with an intestinal tracer representing an orally administered tracer. MPI was performed to evaluate the fluid exchange between the vascular compartment of the bowel wall and the lumen while a blood pool tracer was applied. Leakage of the blood pool tracer was observed to the bowel lumen. Multi-contrast MPI enabled co-registration of both tracers at the same location within the bowel lumen indicating gastrointestinal bleeding. Single- and multi-contrast MPI are feasible to visualize gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, MPI might emerge as a useful tool for radiation-free detection of bleeding within the entire gastrointestinal tract.

The Role of Timely Angiography in Elderly Patients Presenting With Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in the elderly population. Timely diagnosis and establishing the etiology of the LGIB can guide appropriate treatment and management. Our patient is a 91-year-old female who presented to the ER with the complaint of several episodes of hematochezia that started four hours before her presentation. The patient underwent an urgent CT angiography showing active bleeding in the proximal ascending colon. She underwent a super-selective arteriogram followed by embolization of the ascending colon arterial culprit bleeding territory using two coils. Her clinical condition improved, and she had no further episodes of hematochezia. Her case highlights the importance of timely diagnosis of the underlying etiology of a patient presenting with LGIB.

Novel patch biomaterial treatment for colon diverticulosis in swine model

Current leading managements for diverticular disease cannot prevent the recurrence of diverticulitis, bleeding and/or other complications. There is an immediate need for developing new minimal invasive therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat this disease. Through a biomechanical analysis of porcine colon with diverticular lesions, we proposed a novel adhesive patch concept aiming at mechanical reconstruction of the diseased colon wall. This study aims to evaluate the surgical feasibility (safety and efficacy) of pulmonary visceral pleura (PVP) patch therapy using a pig model of diverticulosis. Six female Yucatan miniature pigs underwent collagenase injection (CI) for the development of diverticular lesions. The lesions in each animal either received patch implantation (treated group, n = 40 for 6 pigs) or left intact (untreated group, n = 44 for 6 pigs). The normal colonic wall in each animal received patch implantation at two spots to serve as control (n = 12 for 6 pigs). After 3 months of observation, the performance and safety of the patch treatment were evaluated through macroscopic and histological examination. We found that 95% of pouch-like herniation of the mucosa was prevented from the colon wall with the treatment. The pouch diameter was significantly reduced in the treated group as compared to the untreated group (p < 0.001). The patch application caused a significant increase in the levels of collagen of the colon tissue as compared to the untreated and control groups (p < 0.001). No difference was found in the lymphocyte and macrophage inflammatory infiltrate between the groups. Our results suggest that patch treatment efficiently inhibits the diverticular pouch deformation and promotes the healing of the colon wall with a normal inflammatory response, which may minimize the risk of diverticulosis reoccurrence and complications over time.

Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Retrospective Study on 10 Years Experiences in Southeastern Iran

Background: Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is an emergency medical situation that is very common, although often benign but can cause considerable morbidity and mortality and health care costs. The aim of this study was to analyze the endoscopic evaluation of upper GIB (UGIB) and lower GIB (LGIB) in Sistan and Balouchestan, southeast Iran. Methods: Data from patients with GIB in a referral university-affiliated hospital in Zahedan, Southeastern Iran during a 10-year period, were obtained. A total of 21884 reports of adult patients' endoscopy and colonoscopy from 2011 to 2020 who were admitted to Ali-Ibn-Abitaleb hospital were studied of which 5862 reports were related to GIB. Incomplete files were excluded. Information on age, sex, and endoscopic diagnosis of the 5053 reports was analyzed and compared using chi-square statistical test. Results: There were 3310 men (65.6%) and 1743 women (34.4%) with a mean (±SD) of age 48.4 (±19.83) years. 3079 patients had UGIB (60.8%) and 1974 patients had LGIB (39.2%). Peptic ulcer (72.8% duodenal ulcer and 27.2% gastric ulcer) was seen as the main reason for UGIB (29.7%) and hemorrhoids were the main reason for LGIB (44.2%). Mallory-Weiss syndrome was significantly common in the age<40 years old, and the incidence rate of malignancy was significantly higher in those aged>40 years old than in the younger age group (P<0.001). Conclusion: Peptic ulcer was the most common etiological factor and it was more common in men than in women. Gastroesophageal varices were the second most common cause of UGIB. Hemorrhoids and anal fissures were observed as the most common colonoscopic findings of LGIB. The prevalences of UGIB and LGIB are more common in men than women and increase with age. It is important for physicians to constantly update their information about the spectrum of diseases in their region and their changing over time to provide accurate diagnosis and management timely.

To Bleed or Not to Bleed

The location of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding can be characterized based on the characteristics of the bowel movements these patients present with. Bright red blood per rectum is usually associated with a lower bleed; if brisk and significant enough, however, upper bleeds can present similarly. Melenic or "tar-colored" bowel movements are more likely to occur from upper bleeds as the color is secondary to digestion of hemoglobin as it passes through the GI tract. At times, there can be a mix of the two which can make a clinical decision for intervention less obvious. To make matters more difficult, some of these patients can be on anticoagulation therapy for a myriad of reasons. Risks versus benefits at these times need to be weighed as holding this therapy may make the patients more prone to clotting while continuation would increase likelihood of bleeding. We present a case of a hypercoagulable patient who was started on rivaroxaban for history of pulmonary embolism; this led to the onset of an acute GI bleed from a duodenal diverticulum requiring endoscopic intervention. Although this can be a known effect of the therapy, the severity of bleed and changes in hemodynamics can warrant very different management strategies.

Effective, safe and efficient porcine model of Forrest Ib bleeding gastric and colonic ulcers

BACKGROUND

Developing effective gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding animal models is necessary to advance endoscopic hemostasis methods and train endoscopists on their use. Our aim, therefore, was to develop an effective and safe porcine GI bleeding model in the stomach and colon of large and small-sized oozing-type ulcers.

METHODS

Gastric and colonic bleeding ulcers were created using either a hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) technique or a cap-assisted endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR-C) technique in 14 pigs. Prior to ulcer creation, animals were treated with either oral apixaban or intravenous (IV) unfractionated heparin anticoagulation in combination with clopidogrel and aspirin. The primary outcome was the technical success of inducing oozing-type Forrest Ib bleeding ulcers. Secondary outcomes included ulcer diameter, number, creation time and the number of complications associated with each technique.

RESULTS

Using hybrid ESD and IV heparin anticoagulation, bleeding was observed in 21/23 (91.3%) gastric ulcers and 6/7 (85.7%) colonic ulcers created. The mean diameter and ulcer creation time were 2.3 ± 0.3 cm and 5.3 ± 0.5 min, respectively, for gastric ulcers and 2.2 ± 0.4 cm and 4.06 ± 0.6 min, respectively, for colonic ulcers. Using EMR-C and IV heparin anticoagulation, bleeding was observed in 14/15 (93.3%) gastric ulcers and 6/6 (100%) colonic ulcers created. The mean diameter and ulcer creation time were 0.8 ± 0.2 cm and 2.1 ± 0.5 min, respectively, for gastric ulcers and 0.7 ± 0.2 cm and 1.7 ± 0.3 min, respectively, for colonic ulcers. None of the ulcers created in animals anticoagulated with apixaban developed bleeding. None of the 14 pigs developed any complications.

CONCLUSION

We have demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of a porcine GI bleeding model utilizing IV heparin anticoagulation and either hybrid ESD or EMR-C techniques to create oozing-type bleeding ulcers in the stomach and colon with customizable size.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospital-Acquired Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Single Centre Retrospective Cohort Study

Background Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is common in inpatient and outpatient settings; however, there are limited studies on the clinical characteristics and patient outcomes of those with hospital-acquired LGIB. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with hospital-acquired LGIB who underwent colonoscopy during hospitalization between January 2017 and December 2021. We described the clinical characteristics, etiology, and clinical outcomes of patients stratified as those undergoing colonoscopy within 24 hours from haematochezia onset (early colonoscopy group) or after 24 hours from onset (late colonoscopy group). We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with endoscopic intervention in the early and late colonoscopy groups. Results Of the 272 patients included, the median age was 79 years (interquartile range: 72-85 years), 153 (56%) were bedridden, and 172 (63%) had hypoalbuminemia. The most frequent etiology was rectal ulcer (101 cases, 37%), whereas 7 (2.6%) had diverticular bleeding. The endoscopic intervention was performed on 16.7% and 7.9% of early and late colonoscopy patients. There were more patients with both non-severe and severe rebleeding in the early colonoscopy group (16% and 12%, respectively) than in the late colonoscopy group (11% and 6.5%, respectively). Colonoscopy-on-worktime was the only factor independently associated with a higher occurrence of endoscopic intervention. Conclusions In our sample, very old patients with hospital-acquired LGIB required endoscopy mainly due to rectal ulcers. Further studies will be necessary to investigate the differences between community-acquired LGIB and hospital-acquired LGIB and the optimal timing of colonoscopy for these patients.

Impact of anticoagulants on the clinical outcomes of colonic diverticular bleeding comparing warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants

Recently, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been widely used as antithrombotic agents to replace warfarin, but their clinical impact in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding is unclear. We compared the effects of warfarin and DOACs on the outcomes of patients with colonic diverticular bleeding. The patients were divided into warfarin and DOAC groups. We compared the clinical outcomes and the effect of the DOAC dosing and examined any readmissions due to colonic diverticular bleeding within 1 year. A total of 95 events (warfarin group: n = 43 and DOAC group: n = 52) were included. Compared with the warfarin group, the DOAC group was significantly older, had a lower rate of concomitant antiplatelet agents, and a shorter hospital stay, but no significant differences were found in the other clinical outcomes. Thirty-seven patients (71.2%) in the DOAC group had appropriate dosing, whereas 15 patients (28.9%) had an inappropriate dose. The patients with overdose or contraindications had significantly lower minimum hemoglobin levels. In the univariate analysis, prior hospitalization for colonic diverticular bleeding was a significant predictor of readmission. Compared with warfarin, patients with colonic diverticular bleeding treated with DOACs were older and had shorter hospital stays, and the inappropriate use of DOACs may worsen outcomes.

Out of sight for the endoscopist? Gastrointestinal bleeding after aortic repair

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Secondary Aortoenteric Fistulas (sAEF) are difficult to diagnose and usually result in fatal gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding following aortic repair. Outcomes are largely dependent on a timely diagnosis, but AEFs remain challenging to identify endoscopically and are usually diagnosed on computed tomography (CT) scans. The aim of our study was optimize diagnosis of AEF by identifying patients developing GI bleeding after aortic repair, investigate their clinical course and identify factors specific to different bleeding sources.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center study capturing all patients developing upper or lower GI bleeding after aortic surgery between January 2009 and March 2020 was performed. Electronic health records were screened for diagnostic codes of the relevant procedures. Bleeding was classified into three groups: AEF with demonstrable fistula, ischemic - macroscopic ulceration plus histological confirmation or imaging and "other" due to other recognized conventional cause, such as peptic ulcer disease.

RESULTS

47 GI bleeding episodes in 39 patients were identified. Of these, 10 episodes (21%) were caused by AEF, 16 (34%) by ischemic ulceration and 21 (45%) due to other causes. Patients with AEF exhibited more frequent hemodynamic instability requiring vasopressors and had higher mortality, while ischemic ulcerations were associated with more recent operation or hypotensive episode.

CONCLUSIONS

GI bleeding complications are uncommon following aortic surgery. AEF and ischemic ulceration are however frequent bleeding causes in this cohort. In patients presenting with fulminant bleeding, primary CT-scanning should be considered.

Acute diverticulitis complicated by massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding: a rare diagnostic challenge

A man in his 70s presented with acute sigmoid diverticulitis complicated by a large pericolonic abscess abutting the left rectus abdominis muscle. He was admitted for non-operative management. On hospital day 2, he developed haemorrhagic shock from profuse haematochezia. Colonoscopy was not advisable in the setting of acute complicated diverticulitis. Placement of a percutaneous drain into the abscess cavity returned bright red blood, which was concerning for erosion of the diverticular abscess into the left inferior epigastric artery. An urgent diagnostic angiogram showed hyperaemia enveloping the abscess cavity. Haemostasis was achieved by angioembolisation of the left inferior epigastric artery. The patient did well and was discharged with a course of antibiotics in anticipation of an elective sigmoidectomy.

Disparities in colonoscopy utilization for lower gastrointestinal bleeding in rural vs urban settings in the United States

BACKGROUND

Lower gastrointestinal bleeds (LGIB) is a very common inpatient condition in the United States. Gastrointestinal bleeds have a variety of presentations, from minor bleeding to severe hemorrhage and shock. Although previous studies investigated the efficacy of colonoscopy in hospitalized patients with LGIB, there is limited research that discusses disparities in colonoscopy utilization in patients with LGIB in urban and rural settings.

AIM

To investigate the difference in utilization of colonoscopy in lower gastrointestinal bleeding between patients hospitalized in urban and rural hospitals.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of 157748 patients using National Inpatient Sample data and the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project provided by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. It includes patients 18 years and older hospitalized with LGIB admitted between 2010 and 2016. This study does not differentiate between acute and chronic LGIB and both are included in this study. The primary outcome measure of this study was the utilization of colonoscopy among patients in rural and urban hospitals admitted for lower gastrointestinal bleeds; the secondary outcome measures were in-hospital mortality, length of stay, and costs involved in those receiving colonoscopy for LGIB. Statistical analyses were all performed using STATA software. Logistic regression was used to analyze the utilization of colonoscopy and mortality, and a generalized linear model was used to analyze the length of stay and cost.

RESULTS

Our study found that 37.9% of LGIB patients at rural hospitals compared to approximately 45.1% at urban hospitals received colonoscopy, (OR = 0.730, 95%CI: 0.705-0.7, P > 0.0001). After controlling for covariates, colonoscopies were found to have a protective association with lower in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.498, 95%CI: 0.446-0.557, P < 0.0001), but a longer length of stay by 0.72 d (95%CI: 0.677-0.759 d, P < 0.0001) and approximately $2199 in increased costs.

CONCLUSION

Although there was a lower percentage of LGIB patients that received colonoscopies in rural hospitals compared to urban hospitals, patients in both urban and rural hospitals with LGIB undergoing colonoscopy had decreased in-hospital mortality. In both settings, benefit came at a cost of extended stay, and higher total costs.

Acute Severe Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Low- and Medium-Income Countries: An Approach to Management of Two Cases and the Need for Local Guidelines

Acute severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) refers to continued significant bleeding that occurs within the first 24 hours of admission and may be associated with hemodynamic instability. Patients at risk of severe LGIB include elderly patients often with comorbidities and on antiplatelets/anticoagulants.

The accepted guidelines and recommendations used in the management of patients with acute severe LGIB are mainly based on research and evidence from high-income countries which may not be practical in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The management of these patients in LMICs is often based on more pressing concerns such as availability of relevant equipment, affordability of care, and accessible technical expertise. In LMICs, surgery plays a major role in patients with severe bleeding and hemodynamic instability refractory to resuscitation and blood transfusion. Here, we discuss the management of two patients who presented with acute severe LGIB and the applicability of the current guidelines in the management of LMIC patients.

Trends in hospitalization, mortality, and timing of colonoscopy in patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Background and study aims Current guidelines conditionally recommend performing early colonoscopy (EC) (< 24 hours) in patients admitted with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). It remains unclear whether this practice is implemented widely. Therefore, we used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to investigate trends for timing of colonoscopy in patients admitted with acute LGIB. We also assessed trend of hospitalization and mortality in patients with LGIB.

Patients and methods Adult patients with LGIB admitted from 2005 to 2014 were examined. ICD-9-CM codes were used to extract LGIB discharges. Trends were assessed using Cochrane-Armitage test. Factors associated with mortality, cost of hospitalization, and length of stay (LOS) were assessed by multivariable mixed-effects and exact-matched logistic, linear regression, and accelerated-failure time models, respectively.

Results A total of 814,647 patients with LGIB were included. The most common etiology of LGIB was diverticular bleeding (49 %) and 45 % of patients underwent EC. Over the study period, there was no change in the trend of colonoscopy timing. Although admission with LGIB increased over the study period, the mortality rate decreased for patients undergoing colonoscopy. Independent predictors of mortality were age, surgery (colostomy/colectomy) during admission, intensive care unit admission, acute kidney injury, and blood transfusion requirement. Timing of colonoscopy was not associated with mortality benefit. However, cost of hospitalization was $ 1,946 lower and LOS was 1.6 days shorter with EC.

Conclusion Trends in colonoscopy timing in management of LGIB have not changed over the years. EC is associated with lower LOS and cost of hospitalization but it does not appear to improve inpatient mortality.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Radiologic Management of Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Bleeding: 2021 Update

Diverticulosis remains the commonest cause for acute lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding (GIB). Conservative management is initially sufficient for most patients, followed by elective diagnostic tests. However, if acute lower GIB persists, it can be investigated with colonoscopy, CT angiography (CTA), or red blood cell (RBC) scan. Colonoscopy can identify the site and cause of bleeding and provide effective treatment. CTA is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that is better tolerated by patients, can identify actively bleeding site or a potential bleeding lesion in vast majority of patients. RBC scan can identify intermittent bleeding, and with single-photon emission computed tomography, can more accurately localize it to a small segment of bowel. If patients are hemodynamically unstable, CTA and transcatheter arteriography/embolization can be performed. Colonoscopy can also be considered in these patients if rapid bowel preparation is feasible. Transcatheter arteriography has a low rate of major complications; however, targeted transcatheter embolization is only feasible if extravasation is seen, which is more likely in hemodynamically unstable patients. If bleeding site has been previously localized but the intervention by colonoscopy and transcatheter embolization have failed to achieve hemostasis, surgery may be required. Among patients with obscure (nonlocalized) recurrent bleeding, capsule endoscopy and CT enterography can be considered to identify culprit mucosal lesion(s). The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

Cavernous Hemangioma: A Rare Cause of Massive Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Due to their rarity, intestinal hemangiomas are not commonly considered as a cause of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. This report describes a patient who presented with massive, recurrent lower GI bleeding secondary to a cavernous hemangioma of the small intestine. The source of GI bleeding could not initially be identified despite using numerous diagnostic modalities. The lesion was eventually revealed on diagnostic laparoscopy and small bowel resection was performed.

Utility of the Gel Immersion Method for Treating Massive Colonic Diverticular Bleeding

Background/Aims

In Asia, right-sided diverticular bleeding is more common than that of the left side. It often causes massive bleeding and difficulties in identifying the stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) of colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB). This case series demonstrates the efficacy of the gel immersion method using OS-1 Jelly (Otsuka Pharmaceuticals Factory, Tokushima, Japan) in patients with CDB.

Methods

This retrospective case series analyzed data of patients with CDB who underwent the gel immersion method from April 2016 to February 2020 at St. Luke’s International Hospital, Japan. All patients diagnosed with CDB who underwent the gel immersion method were included. We collected data on the site of bleeding, identification of SRH, and efficacy of the method from the electronic medical records.

Results

A total of 9 patients (including 7 with right-sided CDB) underwent gel immersion method and were included in this study. SRH were successfully found in 66.7% (6/9) of patients. Moreover, effective hemostasis was achieved in 85.7% (6/7) of patients with right-sided CDB. There were no adverse events.

Conclusions

The gel immersion method was found to be effective, especially for massive right-sided CDB.

Myocardial Ischemia, a Rare Presentation of Meckel's Diverticulum

CONTEXT

Meckel's diverticulum is a rare congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract. It is typically asymptomatic and found incidentally in the work-up of another medical complaint. However, it has been known to cause complications in a minority of cases.

METHODS

This case involves an elderly male in his early 80's who presented to the emergency department with a 2-day history of emesis and hematochezia, in addition to sudden onset syncope and angina-like symptoms. Serial electrocardiograms demonstrated diffuse ST-segment depressions, consistent with myocardial ischemia. The patient underwent laboratory testing, imaging, endoscopy, and a subsequent exploratory laparotomy.

RESULTS

Laboratory results revealed lactic acidosis, anemia, and leukocytosis. Upper endoscopy resulted in negative findings. Imaging, including CT-scan and Technetium-99 RBC scan, visualized a gastrointestinal bleed. However, the arterial embolization procedure was unable to stop the bleeding diverticulum. Exploratory laparotomy revealed an infarcted Meckel's diverticulum.

CONCLUSIONS

This case demonstrates the importance of clinicians generating a wide differential when evaluating a gastrointestinal bleed, and considering Meckel's diverticulum as a potential cause of a bleed with an unknown source. The primary test to diagnose a Meckel's diverticulum is a Technetium-99 RBC scan. However, visualization via exploratory laparotomy is the best test for definitive diagnosis. The decision to intervene surgically earlier can limit mortality with symptomatic Meckel's diverticula.

Computed tomography versus lower endoscopy as initial diagnostic method for evaluating patients with hematochezia at emergency room

For acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB), lower gastrointestinal endoscopy is the preferred initial diagnostic test. However, it is difficult to perform urgently. Computed tomography (CT) is a convenient alternative.This study aimed to determine the diagnostic performance of CT compared to lower endoscopy as an initial test for evaluating acute LGIB.The medical records of 382 patients who visited our emergency department with hematochezia between January 2012 and January 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 112 underwent CT, 65 underwent colonoscopy, and 205 underwent sigmoidoscopy as an initial test. For each method, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated upon active bleeding site detection and LGIB etiology diagnosis.The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CT for active bleeding site detection were 85.7%, 100%, 100%, and 96.9%, respectively, while those for identifying the etiology of LGIB were 87.4%, 40.0%, 83.5, and 47.6%, respectively.CT was not inferior to lower endoscopy for active bleeding site detection. Early localization and the exclusion of active bleeding were possible with CT. Etiology was diagnosed with high sensitivity and PPV by CT. Thus, CT can be an alternative initial diagnostic tool for evaluating acute LGIB.

Computational analysis of mechanical stress in colonic diverticulosis

Diverticulosis results from the development of pouch-like structures, called diverticula, over the colon. The etiology of the disease is poorly understood resulting in a lack of effective treatment approaches. It is well known that mechanical stress plays a major role in tissue remodeling, yet its role in diverticulosis has not been studied. Here, we used computational mechanics to investigate changes in stress distribution engendered over the colon tissue by the presence of a pouch-like structure. The objectives of the study were twofold: (1) observe how stress distribution changes around a single pouch and (2) evaluate how stress elevation correlates with the size of the pouch. Results showed that high stresses are concentrated around the neck of a pouch, and their values and propagation increase with the size of the pouch neck rather than the pouch surface area. These findings suggest that stress distribution may change in diverticulosis and a vicious cycle may occur where pouch size increases due to stress elevation, which in turn elevates stress further and so on. Significant luminal pressure reduction would be necessary to maintain stress at normal level according to our results and therapeutic approaches aimed directly at reducing stress should rather be sought after.

Colonoscopic Finding of Patients with Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding at Different Age Group in Eastern Part of India - An Observational Study

Incidence of lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding (LGIB) is increasing over time. It can be seen in all age group patients, commonly associated with pre-existing comorbidities and is one of the common indications of colonoscopy. This study was done to identify common causes of LGIB in eastern part of India, because there is no previous study from Eastern India to identify the common causes of lower GI bleeding diagnosed by colonoscopy in different age group patients. Consecutive 64 patients with LGIB were included in this study from June 2018 to March 2019. We divided our study population into three groups, such as group A (20 years to 40 years), group B (41 years to 60 years), and group C (more than 60 years). Data were entered into Excel and then transferred into SPSS version 22 for statistical analysis. Mean age of study population was 49.83 ± 19.06 years. Normal colonoscopic finding was seen in 7 patients (10.9%). Most common colonoscopic findings of our study population were hemorrhoids (n=32; 50%), anal fissure (n=11; 17.2%) and isolated rectal ulcer (n=9; 14.1%). Colorectal growth was seen in 6 patients (9.4%), among them female patients were more commonly affected than male patients. Therefore, most common causes of LGIB in eastern part of India are hemorrhoids, anal fissure and isolated rectal ulcer. Male individuals are more commonly affected by LGIB.

Disseminated tuberculosis presenting as massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Intestinal tuberculosis has varied clinical presentations and often requires high index of suspicion for clinching the diagnosis. We report a case of an 18-year-old male who presented with abrupt onset of massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding and was diagnosed to have ileocecal tuberculosis. This case signifies the need to consider the possibility of intestinal tuberculosis as a cause of severe hematochezia among other etiologies to prevent mortality and morbidity.

A multicentre development and validation study of a novel lower gastrointestinal bleeding score-The Birmingham Score

PURPOSE

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is common and risk stratification scores can guide clinical decision-making. There is no robust risk stratification tool specific for LGIB, with existing tools not routinely adopted. We aimed to develop and validate a risk stratification tool for LGIB.

METHODS

Retrospective review of LGIB admissions to three centres between 2010 and 2018 formed the derivation cohort. Using regressional analysis within a machine learning technique, risk factors for adverse outcomes were identified, forming a simple risk stratification score-The Birmingham Score. Retrospective review of an additional centre, not included in the derivation cohort, was performed to validate the score.

RESULTS

Data from 469 patients were included in the derivation cohort and 180 in the validation cohort. Admission haemoglobin OR 1.07(95% CI 1.06-1.08) and male gender OR 2.29(95% CI 1.40-3.77) predicted adverse outcomes in the derivation cohort AUC 0.86(95% CI 0.82-0.90) which outperformed the Blatchford 0.81(95% CI 0.77-0.85), Rockall 0.60(95% CI 0.55-0.65) and AIM65 0.55(0.50-0.60) scores and in the validation cohort AUC 0.80(95% CI 0.73-0.87) which outperformed the Blatchford 0.77(95% CI 0.70-0.85), Rockall 0.67(95% CI 0.59-0.75) and AIM 65 scores 0.61(95% CI 0.53-0.69). The Birmingham Score also performs well at predicting adverse outcomes from diverticular bleeding AUC 0.87 (95% CI 0.75-0.98). A score of 7 predicts a 94% probability of adverse outcome.

CONCLUSION

The Birmingham Score represents a simple risk stratification score that can be used promptly on patients admitted with LGIB.

Evaluation of the guaiac fecal occult blood test for detection of gastrointestinal bleeding in the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage accompanies several common diseases of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). Guaiac fecal occult blood testing (gFOBT) is a non-invasive means to detect such bleeding in several species; however, there are currently no data indicating reliability of this test to detect GI hemorrhage in macaques.

METHODS

We evaluated sensitivity and specificity of gFOBT to detect simulated and biopsy-associated bleeding in the stomach, duodenum, and colon of 15 rhesus macaques. Fecal samples were analyzed via gFOBT for 72 hours.

RESULTS

Guaiac fecal occult blood testing was more sensitive to detect lower vs upper GI bleeding; sensitivity was volume-dependent in the upper GI tract. Single-test specificity was 95.2%. Repeated fecal collections increased gFOBT sensitivity without affecting specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

Guaiac fecal occult blood testing is a useful screening test for both upper and lower GI bleeding in rhesus macaques. For highest sensitivity, gFOBT should be performed on three fecal samples collected 24 hours apart.

Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients With Cirrhosis-Etiology and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common clinical problem, and may be more prevalent among patients with cirrhosis, especially in the setting of portal hypertension and coagulopathy. However, there is extremely little data available on the subject of LGIB in patients with cirrhosis. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to better understand the etiology and outcomes of cirrhotic patients hospitalized with LGIB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 3,735 cirrhotic patients admitted to the Medical University of South Carolina between January 2011 and September 2018, and identified patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of hematochezia or bright red blood per rectum.

RESULTS

Thirty patients with cirrhosis and LGIB were included in the cohort. The mean age was 56 ± 13 years, with 30% women. The mean model of end stage liver disease score was 22, and Child-Pugh (CP) scores were C: 41%, B: 33% and A: 26%. The mean Charlson Comorbidity Index was 5.6. Twenty-four (80%) patients had a clinical decompensating event (hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, esophageal varices); the mean hepatic venous pressure gradient was 14.1 mm Hg (n = 8). In 33% of patients, LGIB was considered significant bleeding that necessitated blood transfusion. The most common cause of LGIB was hemorrhoids (11 patients, 37%), followed by portal hypertensive enteropathy or colopathy (7 patients, 23%). Hemoglobin levels on admission were lower in patients with CP B/C cirrhosis than in those with CP A (P < 0.001). The length of stay was 9 ± 10 days, and 5 patients died (mortality, 17%).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being uncommon, LGIB in cirrhotic patients is associated with a high mortality rate.

Lower GI Bleeding: An Update on Incidences and Causes

Bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract represents a significant source of morbidity and mortality. The colon represents the vast majority of the location of bleeding with only a much smaller incidence occurring in the small intestine. The major causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) are from diverticulosis, vascular malformations, and cancer. We discuss the incidence and causes of LGIB.

Characteristics of patients treated for active lower gastrointestinal bleeding detected by CT angiography: Interventional radiology versus surgery

PURPOSE

To determine radiological or clinical criteria guiding treatment decisions in active lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We consecutively and retrospectively included all patients admitted to our emergency department for acute LGIB proven by CT angiography (CTA) from 2004 to 2017. Patients were divided into two groups depending on whether they first underwent interventional radiological (IR) or surgical treatment. Two radiologists reviewed CTA and angiographic images. Patients' hemodynamic and clinical parameters, delay between imaging and treatment, procedure characteristics, and outcomes were investigated to detect differences between the two groups.

RESULTS

Initial management consisted of IR in 62 cases (70.5%) and surgery in 26 (29.5%). IR cases were older than surgical cases (74.3 vs 64.3y, p = 0.014). Baseline hemodynamic parameters were similar between the two groups. For colonic bleeding sources, the delay between CTA and IR was shorter than between CTA and surgery (p = 0.027), while there was a trend towards a shorter delay for all LGIB taken together (p = 0.061). In cases with hematochezia or melena, IR was more frequently performed than surgery (p = 0.001). Surgical cases showed higher base excesses (p = 0.039) and lactate levels (p = 0.042) after treatment compared with IR cases. Length of hospital stay was similar between the two groups (p = 0.728). During angiography, 41 (66%) cases were embolized. Complications occurred in three cases after IR (7%) and in five after surgery (19%).

CONCLUSION

Initial management of active LGIB revealed by CTA (i.e. IR versus surgery), may depend on age and clinical signs, rather than hemodynamic parameters.

Role of Helicobacter pylori in Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding Among Ischemic Stroke Hospitalizations: A Nationwide Study of Outcomes

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a well-recognized risk factor for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). The exposure to tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), anti-platelets, and anticoagulants increases the risk of UGIB in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients, the risk stratification of H. pylori infection is not known. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between H. pylori and GIB in patients hospitalized with AIS. Methods: In the nationwide data, hospitalization for AIS was identified by primary diagnosis using International Classification of Diseases, clinical modification (ICD-9-CM) codes. Subgroup of patients with GIB and H. pylori were identified in AIS cohort. A stepwise multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to evaluate the outcome of upper GIB and role of H. Pylori in UGIB. Results: Overall 4,224,924 AIS hospitalizations were identified, out of which 18,629 (0.44%) had UGIB and 3122 (0.07%) had H. pylori. The prevalence of H. pylori-induced UGIB among UGIB in AIS was 3.05%. The prevalence of UGIB was markedly elevated among the H. pylori infection group (18.23% vs. 0.43%; p < 0.0001) compared to the non-H. pylori group. In multivariable regression analysis, H. pylori was associated with markedly elevated odds of UGIB (aOR:27.75; 95%CI: 21.07–36.55; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: H. pylori infection had increased risk-adjusted occurrence of UGIB amongst the AIS hospitalized patients. H. pylori testing may improve risk stratification for UGIB and lower the health care cost burden in stroke hospitalization.

Early Endoscopy Is Associated with Better Clinical Outcomes in Patients Hospitalized with Ischemic Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Providing diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, lower gastrointestinal endoscopy is a salient investigative modality for ischemic bowel disease (IB). As studies on the role of endoscopic timing on the outcomes of IB are lacking, we sought to clarify this association.

METHODS

After identifying 18-to-90-year-old patients with a primary diagnosis of IB from the 2012-2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-Nationwide Inpatient Sample, we grouped them based on timing of endoscopy into three: early (n = 9268), late (n = 3515), and no endoscopy (n = 18,452). We explored the determinants of receiving early endoscopy, the impact of endoscopic timing on outcomes (mortality and 13 others), and the impact of the type of endoscopy (colonoscopy vs. sigmoidoscopy) on these outcomes among the early group (SAS 9.4).

RESULTS

Less likely to receive early endoscopy were Blacks compared to Whites (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.81 95% CI [0.70-0.94]), and individuals on Medicaid, Medicare, and uninsured compared to the privately insured group (aOR 0.80 [0.71-0.91], 0.70 [0.58-0.84], and 0.68 [0.56-0.83]). Compared to the late and no endoscopy groups, patients with early endoscopy had less mortality (aOR 0.53 [0.35-0.80] and 0.09 [0.07-0.12]), shorter length of stay (LOS, 4.64 [4.43-4.87] days vs. 8.87 [8.40-9.37] and 6.62 [6.52-7.13] days), lower total hospital cost (THC, $41,055 [$37,995-$44,361] vs. $72,598 [$66,768-$78,937] and $68,737 [$64,028-$73,793]), and better outcomes. Similarly, among those who received early endoscopy, colonoscopy had better outcomes than sigmoidoscopy for mortality, THC, LOS, and adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Early endoscopy, especially colonoscopy, is associated with better clinical outcomes and decreased healthcare utilization in IB. Unfortunately, there are disparities against Blacks, and non-privately insured individuals in receiving early endoscopy.

Aortoenteric fistula: a rare but critical cause of small bowel bleeding discovered on capsule endoscopy

A 78-year-old man attended for outpatient capsule endoscopy, to investigate a recent history of unexplained small bowel bleeding. His previous medical history included an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair 6 years ago. Soon after capsule ingestion, he experienced sudden onset abdominal pain and collapsed on hospital grounds. He was rapidly transferred to the emergency department as he was haemodynamically unstable, and a significant per rectum (PR) bleed was found on examination. The patient was quickly stabilised following fluid resuscitation. CT angiography was performed which did not show active bleeding. However, use of the real-time capsule viewer indicated a profuse active jejunal bleed originating from the aortic graft, suggestive of an aortoenteric fistula. The patient underwent emergency endovascular cuff placement, and subsequent endovascular abdominal aortic stent grafting, to good effect.

Rising Events and Improved Outcomes of Gastrointestinal Bleed With Shock in USA: A 12-year National Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Limited information is available based on single-center studies on trends of incidence and outcomes in gastrointestinal (GI) bleed with shock.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 2002 to 2013 National Inpatient Sample. Using ICD-9 codes we identified 6.4 million hospital discharges of GI bleed from National Inpatient Sample database. Events were analyzed based on type of GI bleed, in-hospital mortality, hemodynamic status, and use of blood products.

RESULTS

GI bleed with shock results in higher hospital mortality (20.77% with shock vs. 2.6% without shock). Between 2002 and 2013, there has been an increase in the percentage of upper and lower GI bleed with shock (1.35% to 4.92% and 1.49% to 3.06%) along with a reduction in mortality in both upper GI bleed with shock (26.9% to 13.8%) and lower GI bleed with shock (54.7% to 19.7%). Consistent with the rise in GI bleed with shock was an increase in blood product utilization. Packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion was associated with reduction in mortality in both nonvariceal upper GI bleed with shock (18.3% without pRBC vs. 13.9% receiving pRBC) and lower GI bleed with shock (36.05% without pRBC vs. 22.13% receiving pRBC), but did not affect mortality in variceal upper GI bleed with shock (31.79% vs. 32.22%).

CONCLUSIONS

GI bleed with shock carries a higher mortality and have been steadily increasing from 2002 to 2013. pRBC transfusion was associated in improved mortality in GI bleed with shock except variceal bleed.

Novel Application of Balloon Tamponade in Management of Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

We present a case of acute lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the emergency department, in which specialists were not emergently available to render their support. A quick intervention using balloon tamponade technique with a Minnesota tube helped stabilize the patient until intensive care, gastroenterology, and surgical specialists could intervene. We also review previous cases from the literature in which a balloon tamponade method was used to control GI hemorrhage. Our novel application of the Minnesota tube is important for emergency physicians to consider for cases of acute lower GI bleeding, particularly in emergent presentations when specialists are not readily available in-hospital.

[Endoscopy, angiography, surgery: diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms for diverticular bleeding]

Diverticular bleeding is a complication of diverticular disease but in contrast to diverticulitis, publications concerning diverticular bleeding are less common. Diverticular bleeding is the cause of approximately 20-50% of cases of lower gastrointestinal bleeding and in rare cases can be life-threatening. The main symptom of diverticular hemorrhage is painless hematochezia and the German guidelines recommend that further diagnostics of suspected diverticular bleeding should be performed in hospital. Interdisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms recommend primary endoscopy in acute as well as chronic recurrent diverticular bleeding. If endoscopy fails to provide an exact localization of the origin of bleeding, angiography or computed tomography (CT) angiography can be performed. The ^99mTc erythrocyte scintigraphy should only be performed if endoscopy and angiography are unable to identify the localization of the bleeding source. More than 90% of diverticular hemorrhages stop spontaneously; however, it is general agreed that an active diverticular bleeding detected during colonoscopy should be immediately treated endoscopically. Alternative radiological techniques for hemostasis are rarely needed and attention must be paid to the complications. In the rare case of severe bleeding that cannot otherwise be stopped or if the bleeding vessel cannot be located, laparotomy and total colectomy can be recommended. If the diverticular bleeding has definitely been identified or recurrent bleeding causes chronic anemia, segmental or total colectomy may be undertaken; however, the advantages and disadvantages of both types of surgery have to be thoroughly explained to the patient.

Predicting the need for transfer and interventional angiography for patients with acute colonic haemorrhage in a regional setting

BACKGROUND

Radiological angioembolization is an important strategy in management of acute colonic bleeding. Due to requirement for specialized interventional radiology, many hospitals rely on transfer for this service. This study aimed to identify patient and clinical factors associated with positive (blush) computed tomography mesenteric angiogram (CTMA) or need for invasive angiography. The secondary aim was to identify a patient population who may forego transfer and be safely managed in a regional centre.

METHODS

All presentations to Central Coast Local Health District with colonic bleeding from June 2013-June 2017 were included. A guideline for transfer of patients with positive CTMA from Central Coast Local Health District to Royal North Shore Hospital had been established prior to the study period. Demographics, medical background, transfusion requirement, presentation details and mortality data were collected on all patients.

RESULTS

Of 2378 patients presenting with colonic bleeding, 71 of 247 patients investigated with CTMA had a blush. Forty-six patients were transferred to Royal North Shore Hospital. Of these, 28 proceeded to interventional angiography with 19 undergoing angioembolization. Acute transfusion ≥5 units (odds ratio 6.78, P < 0.01) was the only significant predictor of needing interventional angiography. There was no association between age, bleeding site (right or left), use of antiplatelet or anticoagulation, diverticular disease or chronic kidney disease and identification of arterial bleeding on interventional angiography. There was no mortality or significant procedure-related morbidity.

CONCLUSION

A patient's medical background demonstrates a lack of correlation to identification of active bleeding on interventional angiography. Patients requiring ≥5 units blood transfusion should be considered for transfer and interventional angiography.

Lactic Acid Is an Independent Predictor of Mortality and Improves the Predictive Value of Existing Risk Scores in Patients Presenting With Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Background

There are validated clinical risk scores for risk stratifying patients presenting with acute upper gastrointestinal bleed (GIB), including Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS), Pre-endoscopic Rockall score (RS-PE) and post-endoscopic complete Rockall Score (RS-C), and AIMS65. Several studies have explored the predictive value of lactic acid (LA) in the context of GI bleeding, but the prognostic role of LA and its incremental value in combination with existing clinical risk scores is not well defined.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients presenting to the emergency department of a single large academic tertiary care center from January 2014 to December 2015 with a charted diagnosis of acute GIB, inclusive of both upper and lower sources. We evaluated the independent role of LA as well as three clinical risk scores for predicting in-hospital mortality in these patients.

Results

Out of 704 patients admitted with acute GI bleeding, 366 patients had LA measured on presentation to the emergency department. The mean LA level, GBS, RS-PE and RS-C were found to be significantly higher in non-survivors, while there was no difference in the mean AIMS65 score between survivors and non-survivors. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that LA level was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality. The area under the curve (AUC) for the receiver operator characteristic for RS-C, RS-PE, and GBS were 0.742, 0.675, and 0.652, respectively. When integrating LA into the above risk scores, the AUC for RS-C, RS-PE, and GBS showed statistical significance improvements to 0.780 (P = 0.04), 0.774 (P = 0.012), and 0.706 (P = 003), respectively.

Conclusions

In unselected patients with GIB who presented to the emergency department, LA is an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality. Integration of LA into RS-C, RS-PE, and GBS risk scores improved their ability to predict in-hospital mortality. The modified LA-based RS-PE (L-Rockall pre-endoscopic) score demonstrated predictive value comparable to the post-endoscopic RS-C.

Solitary ascending colon ulcer diagnosed as gastrointestinal CMV disease

A 42-year-old woman with a history of cholangiocarcinoma on adjuvant chemotherapy with capecitabine presented with painless haematochezia. She was found to have an isolated twenty-five mm ulcer in the ascending colon. Biopsies of the ulceration demonstrated typical cytomegalovirus (CMV) inclusions and her peripheral blood CMV PCR was significantly elevated. This is an unusual case of a solitary proximal colon ulcer. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, inflammatory bowel disease and malignancy, are the most frequent causes of isolated ulcers in the proximal colon. Gastrointestinal (GI) CMV disease most commonly causes CMV colitis and is considered rare outside of the transplant population and other severely immunosuppressed patient groups. Patients who have received chemotherapy may also be at risk for GI CMV disease. The diagnosis should be suspected in patients who present with haematochezia or watery diarrhoea within a broad window of time after receiving chemotherapy.

Appendix Bleeding with Painless Bloody Diarrhea: A Case Report and Literature Review

Appendix bleeding is an uncommon clinical phenomenon. In this article, we reported a case of appendix bleeding with painless bloody diarrhea. With the analysis of clinical features, clinical examination, experimental test and literature review, we diagnosed that the appendix bleeding might be caused by granulomatous appendicitis. This successfully cured case might be a reference for later diagnosis and treatment of appendix bleeding with painless bloody diarrhea.

Corticosteroids and risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in critically ill adults: Protocol for a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Corticosteroids are frequently prescribed to critically ill patients. However, their use may increase the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, which is associated with morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, we aim to assess whether continued administration of corticosteroids for >24 hours increases the rate of GI bleeding in adult critically ill patients compared to placebo or no treatment.

METHODS/DESIGN

We will conduct a systematic review of randomized clinical trials with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. The participants will be adult (as defined in the included trials) critically ill patients. The intervention will be any corticosteroid administered systematically for >24 hours and the comparator will be placebo or no treatment. The primary outcome will be rate of clinically important GI bleeding. We will systematically search EMBASE, MEDLINE, Medline In-Process, Cochrane Library, Epistemonikos and trial registries for relevant literature, as well as perform a hand search. We will follow the recommendations by the Cochrane Collaboration and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. The risk of systematic errors (bias) and random errors will be assessed and the overall quality of evidence will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

DISCUSSION

The risk of GI bleeding in adult critically ill patients treated with corticosteroids is unknown. Hence, there is need for a robust systematic review to assess this risk and provide clinicians with a clearer understanding of the strength and limitations of existing data.

Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: predictive factors and clinical outcome for the patients who needed first-time mesenteric conventional angiography

PURPOSE

We aimed to investigate patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding who presented to the emergency department requiring initial conventional angiography. We report risk-stratified and mesenteric conventional angiography outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding between 2001 and 2012. We included all consecutive patients with clinical lower gastrointestinal bleeding with a requirement of further angiography and possible embolization. Patients who had prior interventions or surgery were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 88 patients (35 women, 53 men) with a median age of 71 years (range, 23-99 years) were included in the analysis. Conventional angiography was positive and endovascular treatment was intended in 35 patients. Once the source of bleeding was found angiographically, endovascular treatment had a technical success rate of 90.3% and clinical success rate of 71.4%. Overall early rebleeding rate (<30 days) was 14.8% and late rebleeding rate (>30 days) was 13.6%.

CONCLUSION

Identifying the source of lower gastrointestinal bleeding remains to be a clinical and angiographic challenge. Although we did not observe an association between mortality and clinical success, increased early rebleeding rates were associated with higher mortality rates.