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An Uncommon Cause of Recurrent Rectal Bleeding in a Young Adult

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Recurrent rectal bleeding in young adults is uncommon and may pose a diagnostic challenge. We present a case of a 21-year-old male with an 8-year history of intermittent rectal bleeding, initially misdiagnosed with ulcerative colitis based on mild proctosigmoiditis and nonspecific colitis on biopsy. Despite medical therapy, his anemia worsened, prompting computed tomography angiography, which revealed an inferior mesenteric arterial malformation. The patient underwent successful endovascular embolization, with complete resolution of symptoms and improved mucosal findings on follow-up colonoscopy. This case highlights the importance of considering vascular malformations in unexplained or refractory lower gastrointestinal bleeding in young adults.

Source: Gastroenterology Hepatology and Endoscopy Practice

DOI: 10.4103/ghep.ghep_6_26

Authors: Shobana Dhanapal, Vishnu Dev, P Ratnakar Kini, Prem Kumar Karunakaran

Institutions: Madras Medical College, Government General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Gastrointestinal Bleeding Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Gastroenterology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7166870731

FWCI:

Cites: 8

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