Scintigraphic identification of bleeding duodenal varices. A case report

In this case of active gastrointestinal bleeding, randionuclide blood pool scintigraphy localized the bleeding to the region of the duodenum. Celiac and superior and inferior mesenteric arteriography did not identify the site of bleeding; however, bleeding duodenal varices were found at the time of surgery. The potential role of radionuclides in the management of patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, especially with bleeding from varices, is discussed.