[A bleeding gastrointestinal stromal tumour in a Meckel's diverticulum]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a congenital anomaly of the small intestine.
• While often asymptomatic, MD can be a source of complications, including bleeding.

Observation:

• A 57-year-old patient presented with severe upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
• The bleeding was attributed to a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) within an MD.
• The MD lacked ectopic tissue, a common association with GISTs.

Findings:

• Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare but significant causes of gastrointestinal bleeding.
• This case highlights a GIST within an MD as a cause of severe hemorrhage.
• The absence of ectopic tissue in the MD did not preclude GIST development.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis of MD-related bleeding is crucial for effective management.
• The findings prompt consideration of prophylactic Meckel's diverticulum resection in select cases.
• Further research into risk factors for GIST development in MDs without ectopic tissue is warranted.