Juvenile Polyp associated with Hypovolemic Shock Due to Massive Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery

Background:

• Juvenile polyps are the most common colorectal polyps in children, often presenting with lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
• These benign hamartomatous lesions are typically found in the rectum and sigmoid colon, usually measuring around 2 cm.

Observation:

• A 6-year-old girl presented with a juvenile polyp in the distal transverse colon.
• This case involved massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding, leading to hypovolemic shock, an atypical presentation for juvenile polyps.

Findings:

• Juvenile polyps, while usually causing mild bleeding, can rarely present with severe hemorrhage.
• The polyp's location in the distal transverse colon was unusual, contributing to the severity of bleeding.

Implications:

• Pediatricians should consider colonoscopy for comprehensive polyp evaluation, regardless of typical presentation.
• The potential for significant blood loss necessitates awareness of varied juvenile polyp presentations and locations.