[VENOUS ECTASIA OF GASTRIC ANTRUM].

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding remains a significant clinical challenge, especially when caused by rare conditions like gastric antral vascular ectasia. While some cases of this condition are asymptomatic, others can lead to severe anemia or overt bleeding. The diagnostic process is primarily visual, relying on a distinct endoscopic appearance known as the 'watermelon stomach.' However, the condition is often overlooked or misdiagnosed due to its rarity and non-specific symptoms. Autoimmune disorders and cirrhosis are frequently associated with this condition, yet the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Treatment options are limited, with endoscopic therapies being the primary approach. Despite the clinical importance, there is a lack of detailed domestic literature on the subject. This gap motivated the need for a focused analysis of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The scarcity of data on this condition highlights the need for improved recognition among endoscopists. Training programs must emphasize the importance of identifying this condition to prevent diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes.

This analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic challenges and treatment outcomes in patients with gastric antral vascular ectasia. The study focused on the time required for accurate diagnosis and the effectiveness of various endoscopic interventions. The motivation stemmed from the observed diagnostic delays and the limited availability of treatment data in the domestic literature. By reviewing four clinical cases, the study sought to highlight the difficulties in identifying this condition and the variability in treatment approaches. The goal was to assess the role of endoscopy in both diagnosis and treatment. The study also aimed to document the technical challenges associated with certain endoscopic techniques. The findings could help inform future training for endoscopists. The ultimate purpose was to emphasize the importance of early and accurate diagnosis for better patient care.

The study reviewed four clinical cases of gastric antral vascular ectasia diagnosed between 5 months and 1.5 years after symptom onset. Endoscopic evaluation was the primary diagnostic tool, relying on the characteristic 'watermelon stomach' appearance. In two cases, the condition was asymptomatic, while the other two presented with severe anemia. Treatment involved endoscopic argon plasma coagulation, with one case also using laser coagulation and bipolar coagulation. The technical challenges of laser coagulation were noted. Patient outcomes were evaluated based on clinical response and resolution of symptoms. Data were collected from medical records and endoscopic reports. The study did not include long-term follow-up or comparative analysis with other treatment modalities. The focus was on the practical application of endoscopic techniques in real-world clinical settings.

The diagnosis of gastric antral vascular ectasia was confirmed in four patients, with a diagnostic delay ranging from 5 months to 1.5 years. Two patients were asymptomatic, while the other two had severe anemia. Endoscopic argon plasma coagulation was the primary treatment, with one case requiring additional laser and bipolar coagulation. The use of laser coagulation presented technical difficulties but did not compromise treatment success. Both patients with severe anemia showed improvement after treatment. The 'watermelon stomach' endoscopic appearance was the key diagnostic feature in all cases. No major complications were reported following the procedures. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of endoscopic treatment in managing this condition, despite the challenges in diagnosis and technique.

The study highlights the importance of endoscopy in both diagnosing and treating gastric antral vascular ectasia. The 'watermelon stomach' appearance remains the most reliable diagnostic indicator. The authors propose that diagnostic delays are common due to the condition's rarity and non-specific symptoms. Endoscopic argon plasma coagulation is the preferred treatment, though additional techniques may be necessary in some cases. The study suggests that laser coagulation, while effective, can be technically challenging. The authors emphasize the need for improved training for endoscopists to recognize this condition. The findings support the role of endoscopy as the primary treatment modality. The authors recommend further research to refine diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.