Anorectal varices

Anorectal varices
SpecialtyGastroenterology, Hematology
SymptomsCoffee ground vomiting, Hematochezia
ComplicationsInternal bleeding, hypovolemic shock, cardiac arrest
CausesPortal hypertension
TreatmentTreating portal hypertension, surgery (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt)

Anorectal varices are collateral submucosal blood vessels dilated by backflow in the veins of the rectum. 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. This can also occur in the esophagus, causing esophageal varices, and at the level of the umbilicus, causing caput medusae. Between 44% and 78% of patients with portal hypertension get anorectal varices.

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