Hematemesis in a 13-Year-Old Boy due to a Dieulafoy Lesion in his Stomach: A Case Report

Abstract

Objective – Massive gastrointestinal bleeding in children is rare. A Dieulafoy lesion is an uncommon condition which may lead to massive and repeated upper gastrointestinal bleeding. We report a pediatric case of gastric Dieulafoy lesion which was successfully treated surgically, after repeated unsuccessful endoscopic treatment.

Case Report – A previously healthy 13-year-old boy presented with hematemesis upon admission to the hospital. He had tachycardia and mild anemia. A gastroscopy revealed erosive gastritis. During the following days, hematemesis continued to reoccur and consequently led to the development of hemorrhagic shock requiring endoscopic treatment with hemoclipping and adrenalin injection. Despite that, hematemesis continued, and it was decided to perform surgical treatment. During open surgery, a tortuous blood vessel was found, suggesting a Dieulafoy lesion.

Conclusion – Although rare, a Dieulafoy lesion should be suspected when treating repeating hematemesis in children. Endoscopic treatment is recommended as first-line management, but rarely, in unclear cases, surgery proves to be a better diagnostic and therapeutic option for massive gastrointestinal bleeding.