Isolated Duodenal Varices as a Cause of Massive Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

SUMMARYPortal hypertension and the development of varices in areas of portosystemic venous anastomoses can lead to dramatic and life‐threatening haemorrhage. Varices most commonly occur in the gastro‐oesophageal region but ectopic varices can arise at other sites in the gastrointestinal tract. This report describes a patient with massive haemorrhage from duodenal varices. We believe the case highlights the importance of considering ectopic varices as a cause of gastro‐intestinal haemorrhage especially when oesophageal varices are absent.