OSLER – WEBER – RENDU SYNDROME: A RARE CASE OF UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL BLEEDING

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome (Hereditary hemorrhagic telengiectasia) cases present with recurrent epistaxis, gastrointestinal bleeding (hematemesis, melena), and arteriovenous malformations involving almost all organs of body. Internal gastrointestinal bleeding can occur from arteriovenous (telengiectasia) from stomach or small bowel. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome who presented with recurrent epistaxis, melena and gross anemia (hemoglobin 3.5 gm/dL). He was admitted and transfused red cell concentrates along with intravenous fluids. His investigations including oesophagogastroscopy, colonoscopy were normal. His Computed tomography mesenteric angiography revealed 02 sites of telangiectasias. The telangiectasias were embolized and coiled resulting in successful control of melena and symptomatic improvement. CONCLUSION: Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome can present with gross anemia in emergency. Their management can be worrisome and challenging for both clinicians and cases of Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome.

Keywords

• osler-weber-rendu syndrome
• hereditary hemorrhagic telengiectasia
• telangiectasias
• melena
• gastrointestinal