Embolization of a duodenal arteriovenous malformation in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: case report and review of the literature

Can J Gastroenterol. 2003 Nov;17(11):661-5. doi: 10.1155/2003/170969.

Abstract

A 68-year-old man with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia presented with recurrent, intermittent gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Transfusion of a total of 27 units of red blood cells was required over the three months before admission. Upper and lower endoscopy did not reveal a source of bleeding and a technetium-labelled red blood cell scan was noncontributory. Angiography demonstrated a duodenal arteriovenous malformation originating from a superior mesenteric artery branch. Embolization of the arteriovenous malformation was performed with resolution of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and reduced requirement for blood transfusion. The utility of trans-catheter embolization in the management of duodenal arteriovenous malformations in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia is discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arteriovenous Malformations / complications
  • Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnostic imaging
  • Arteriovenous Malformations / therapy*
  • Duodenum / blood supply*
  • Embolization, Therapeutic*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Recurrence
  • Telangiectasia, Hereditary Hemorrhagic / complications*