Massive Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding from the Appendix

Massive rectal bleeding from the appendix, considered a rare case of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, is not easily recognized by various diagnostic modalities. A multidisciplinary approach for both a diagnosis and a differential diagnosis is important because the identification of the bleeding site is crucial to proceed to a proper intervention and there are various causes of appendiceal bleeding. Because early colonoscopy plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage, we report a case of a life threatening massive rectal bleeding from the appendix diagnosed by colonoscopy. We also present a review of the literature.

A Case of Successful Laparoscopic Management on Appendiceal Bleeding Diagnosed by Colonoscopy / 대한소화기내시경학회지

Appendiceal causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding are rare, and identification of the bleeding site is critical. Identification of the bleeding site can be difficult. The differential diagnosis of bleeding in the appendix includes diverticulum, appendicitis, angiodysplasia, Crohn's disease, and appendiceal intussusception, which leads to mucosal erosion and vascular exposure by underlying inflammation. Laparoscopic surgery is commonly performed as a therapeutic procedure for the appendix, also can be a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhaging from the appendix. Appendiceal bleeding is rare, and laparoscopic management cases are not widely reported. Herein, we report a case of successful laparoscopic management of appendiceal bleeding diagnosed by colonoscopy with a review of the literature.