Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 11, 2025

Laparoscopic Anatomical Right Hemihepatectomy via the In Situ Anterior Approach
Published on: August 8, 2025
Diffuse cavernous hemangioma of the rectum.
Alicia Ruiz de la Hermosa1, Jaime Zorrilla-Ortuzar2, Emilio Del Valle-Hernández2
1General Surgery and Digestive System, Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor.
This case report describes a 34-year-old man with a rare condition called diffuse cavernous hemangioma (DCH) in the rectum and anus. The patient had chronic rectal bleeding since childhood, which led to surgical intervention. Endoscopy was used to confirm the diagnosis, and an abdominoperineal resection was performed because the dentate line was affected. The authors emphasize that DCH is rare and often overlooked, and they suggest that endoscopy is the best diagnostic tool. Complete surgical removal is recommended as the primary treatment. The case highlights the importance of a high index of suspicion for DCH to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate management.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal surgery
- Vascular anomalies in gastroenterology
- Surgical pathology
Background:
Chronic rectal bleeding without pain is a known clinical presentation in various conditions. However, its cause remains uncertain in some cases. Prior research has shown that vascular lesions may be responsible for such symptoms. No prior work had resolved the specific role of diffuse cavernous hemangioma (DCH) in rectal bleeding. This gap motivated further investigation into DCH as a potential cause. DCH is recognized as a rare condition, but its exact prevalence is unclear. The dentate line's involvement is a known challenge in surgical treatment. Correct diagnosis of DCH remains difficult due to its rarity and variable presentation.
Purpose Of The Study:
The aim of this case presentation is to highlight the clinical features of DCH in the rectum. The authors sought to emphasize the diagnostic challenges associated with this condition. They aimed to describe the treatment approach when the dentate line is affected. The study's motivation stems from the need to raise awareness among clinicians about DCH. Accurate diagnosis is essential to avoid inappropriate management. The authors propose that endoscopy remains the primary diagnostic tool. Surgical excision is suggested as the preferred treatment modality. This case illustrates the importance of a high index of suspicion in diagnosing DCH.
Main Methods:
The study involved a case report of a 34-year-old male with rectal bleeding. Clinical evaluation included a detailed history and physical examination. Endoscopic imaging was used to confirm the diagnosis of DCH. The patient's condition was assessed for surgical eligibility. A sphincter-saving procedure was considered but ruled out due to dentate line involvement. An abdominoperineal resection (APR) was performed as the treatment. Postoperative outcomes were monitored for complications and recurrence. The authors reviewed prior literature to contextualize their findings.
Main Results:
The patient presented with chronic rectal bleeding since infancy. Endoscopy revealed a diffuse vascular lesion in the rectum and anus. The dentate line was affected, making sphincter-saving surgery unfeasible. An abdominoperineal resection was performed successfully. Postoperative recovery was uneventful with no immediate complications. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of DCH. The authors suggest that early diagnosis is crucial for optimal outcomes. This case supports the use of endoscopy for diagnosing DCH.
Conclusions:
The authors state that DCH is a rare but treatable condition. They emphasize the importance of endoscopy in diagnosis. Complete surgical excision is proposed as the primary treatment. When the dentate line is involved, APR is suggested as the preferred option. The authors note that a high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosis. They propose that early intervention improves patient outcomes. The case supports the need for awareness among clinicians. This case adds to the limited literature on DCH of the rectum.
Frequently Asked Questions
The authors propose endoscopy as the primary diagnostic method for DCH.
When the dentate line is involved, sphincter-saving procedures are not feasible, and APR is suggested.
The authors report that symptoms often begin in infancy and are most common in young adults.
Histopathological analysis confirms the diagnosis after endoscopic findings suggest DCH.
Chronic rectal bleeding, which is typically painless and may be uncontrollable.
The authors propose that early diagnosis is crucial for optimal treatment outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...

