Gastric antral vascular ectasia

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a medical condition where an area of the stomach known as the antrum develops small vascular ectasias. These ectasias become inflamed and bleed, leading to chronic, often severe, gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia. The condition is also known as watermelon stomach due to the characteristic streaky appearance of the ectasias.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of GAVE is anemia due to chronic gastrointestinal bleeding. Other symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and light-headedness. In severe cases, patients may present with melena (black, tarry stools) or hematemesis (vomiting blood).

Causes

The exact cause of GAVE is unknown. However, it is often associated with other medical conditions such as cirrhosis, autoimmune diseases, and chronic renal failure. It is also more common in older women.

Diagnosis

GAVE is typically diagnosed through endoscopy, where a long, flexible tube with a camera is used to visualize the stomach. The characteristic appearance of the vascular ectasias, often described as a "watermelon stripe" pattern, can usually confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for GAVE is aimed at stopping the bleeding and managing the anemia. This may involve endoscopic treatments such as argon plasma coagulation or laser therapy. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.

See also

• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Anemia
• Endoscopy

References

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