Massive gastrointestinal bleeding due to isolated jejunal varices in a patient without portal hypertension

INTRODUCTIONIsolated ectopic varices located in the small bowel are uncommon. Portal hypertension caused by liver cirrhosis is the most common predisposing risk factor.PRESENTATION OF CASEWe present an unusual case of massive gastrointestinal bleeding from idiopathic jejunal varices in a 73-year-old Caucasian male without portal hypertension. Exploratory laparotomy disclosed ectopic varices located in the small intestine. Segmental resection of the jejunum with end to end anastomosis resulted in a complete resolution of the haemorrhage. During a 5 year follow up, the patient is stable with no bleeding recurrence.DISCUSSIONInformation on aetiology, diagnosis and management of jejunal varices is reviewed.CONCLUSIONDiagnosis and management of isolated jejunal varices is challenging. Surgeons as well as acute care physicians have to consider idiopatic form of jejunal varices as a potential cause of gastrointestinal bleeding when gastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy are negative.