Isolated Ascending Colon Varix: An Unusual Cause of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleed

Abstract

AbstractEctopic varices, defined as dilated portosystemic veins located at unusual sites other than the gastroesophageal junction and fundus, have been reported in cases of cirrhosis with underlying portal hypertension. The common sites usually are the rectum and duodenum. Isolated colon varix is therefore a rare phenomenon and such varix presenting with lower gastrointestinal bleed as the first manifestation is still uncommon. A high index of clinical suspicion, timely imaging with full-length colonoscopy, and subsequent endoscopic therapy can effectively manage this rare entity.