Vallecular varix causing diagnostic confusion in hematemesis.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy
• Vascular Anomalies

Background:

• Hematemesis signifies upper gastrointestinal bleeding, a condition with substantial morbidity and mortality.
• Common etiologies include peptic ulcer disease and varices.
• Rare causes of hematemesis necessitate awareness to prevent diagnostic delays and potential fatality.

Observation:

• A case of recurrent hematemesis was attributed to a vallecular varix.
• The vallecular varix was successfully treated using sclerosant injection.
• Literature on the pathogenesis and treatment of vallecular varices was reviewed.

Findings:

• Vallecular varicosities represent an uncommon etiology of severe aerodigestive tract hemorrhage.
• Successful management was achieved through endoscopic sclerosant injection.

Implications:

• Vallecular varicosities are a rare but critical cause of life-threatening bleeding.
• Targeted endoscopic evaluation of the vallecula is recommended for unexplained bleeding.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes for this rare condition.