Anorectal varices
Dilated veins in the anus / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Not to be confused with Haemorrhoid.
Anorectal varices are collateral submucosal blood vessels dilated by backflow in the veins of the rectum.[1] Typically this occurs due to portal hypertension which shunts venous blood from the portal system through the portosystemic anastomosis present at this site into the systemic venous system.[2][3] This can also occur in the esophagus, causing esophageal varices, and at the level of the umbilicus, causing caput medusae.[4] Between 44% and 78% of patients with portal hypertension get anorectal varices.[3][5]
Quick Facts Specialty, Symptoms ...
Anorectal varices | |
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Specialty | Gastroenterology, Hematology |
Symptoms | Coffee ground vomiting, Hematochezia |
Complications | Internal bleeding, hypovolemic shock, cardiac arrest |
Causes | Portal hypertension |
Treatment | Treating portal hypertension, surgery (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt) |
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