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An unusual cause of rectal bleeding and intestinal obstruction in a child with peripheral vascular malformations

Abdulhameed Aziz1, Timothy D Kane, Manuel P Meza

  • 1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3705 Fifth Avenue, DeSoto Wing, Floor 4A 485, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.

Pediatric Surgery International
|April 5, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Vascular malformations in the small bowel are rare causes of abdominal pain and rectal bleeding in children. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing these rare enteric vascular anomalies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Vascular Anomalies

Background:

  • Vascular malformations of the small bowel are uncommon but significant causes of pediatric gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Children with known vascular anomalies are at increased risk for developing enteric complications.

Observation:

  • A 6-year-old girl with a history of musculoskeletal vascular anomalies presented with recurrent abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.
  • Symptoms were exacerbated by minor trauma, suggesting a link to the underlying vascular condition.

Findings:

  • A diagnosis of enteric vascular malformation was confirmed in the patient.
  • The patient underwent successful treatment via a combined laparoscopic and open surgical approach.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of suspecting gastrointestinal vascular anomalies in children with known vascular conditions presenting with bleeding or obstruction.
  • Exploratory laparoscopy is a key diagnostic and therapeutic tool.
  • Understanding the distinctions between vascular malformations and hemangiomas is vital for appropriate management.

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