Angiodysplasia is a rare condition characterized by abnormal blood vessels in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to chronic bleeding and anemia.
Causes:
1. Aging
2. Genetic predisposition
3. Certain medications (e.g., aspirin, NSAIDs)
4. Gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease)
Symptoms:
1. Recurrent bleeding in the GI tract
2. Anemia
3. Fatigue
4. Weakness
5. Shortness of breath
6. Abdominal pain
Diagnosis:
1. Endoscopy (e.g., colonoscopy, upper GI endoscopy)
2. Angiography (imaging of blood vessels)
3. Capsule endoscopy
4. Biopsy
Treatment:
1. Endoscopic treatments (e.g., cauterization, sclerotherapy)
2. Angiographic embolization
3. Medications (e.g., estrogen, thalidomide)
4. Surgery (in severe cases)
5. Iron supplements for anemia
Complications:
1. Severe anemia
2. Heart failure
3. Respiratory failure
4. Infection
5. Death (in severe cases)
This article is for information purpose only. Please consult your doctor for the treatment