Primary Aortodigestive Fistula: A Rare and Potentially Lethal Cause of Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

Abstract

Primary aortodigestive fistulas (PAFs) are a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding, with an incidence of 0.04–0.07% in autopsy series. The diagnosis of PAF is difficult and should be considered in patients with gastrointestinal hemorrhage of obscure origin. Because of its high mortality rate, clinical recognition of prodromal symptoms for early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. We report on the case of a 79-year-old patient with a PAF who was admitted for hematochezia and melena. The PAF was suspected during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and confirmed by CT angiography.

Keywords

• Aortodigestive fistula
• Primary aortodigestive fistula
• Rare endoscopic findings
• Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
• Duodenum
• Endoscopy