Case report: A case of radiation-induced diffuse hemorrhagic gastroduodenitis successfully treated with thalidomide

Radiation-induced hemorrhagic gastroduodenitis is an intractable and potentially life-threatening condition. This study reports the case of a 57-year-old male with radiation-induced hemorrhagic gastroduodenitis. The patient had previously received radiotherapy for metastatic tumors involving the liver and adrenal gland. Following this treatment, he presented with melena and anemia, necessitating hospital admission. Prior therapeutic efforts included epinephrine spraying in the gastric antrum and embolization of the gastroduodenal artery. Despite these measures, along with multiple transfusions of packed red blood cells, the hemorrhage persisted. Ultimately, oral administration of thalidomide successfully controlled the bleeding. This case indicates that oral thalidomide may represent a potential treatment option for severe radiation-induced hemorrhagic gastroduodenitis.