Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with chronic iron deficiency anemia of obscure origin. Reports history of melena or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. No significant history of peptic ulcer disease or NSAID overuse. Denies hematemesis. Symptoms are consistent with chronic blood loss secondary to gastric mucosal vascular abnormalities.
Clinical Examination Findings
Physical examination reveals conjunctival pallor consistent with chronic anemia. Abdominal examination is soft, non-tender, with no palpable masses or organomegaly. Bowel sounds are normal. Digital rectal examination confirms presence of melena or heme-positive stool. Vital signs are stable, though tachycardia may be present if anemia is severe.
Treatment Protocol
Endoscopic evaluation confirms longitudinal rows of erythematous vascular ectasias in the gastric antrum (Watermelon stomach). Therapeutic intervention initiated via endoscopic thermal ablation (Argon Plasma Coagulation - APC) or band ligation. Iron supplementation prescribed for anemia management. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy initiated for mucosal protection.