Antral vascular ectasias, also known as watermelon stomach or gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE), is a medical condition characterized by dilated and abnormally structured blood vessels within the lining of the stomach. It is a rare disorder that can lead to chronic gastrointestinal bleeding and iron deficiency anemia.
The term "antral" refers to the antrum, which is the lower section of the stomach, while "vascular ectasias" signifies the abnormal enlargement or dilation of blood vessels. Antral vascular ectasias often result in the formation of red, streaky lesions that resemble the stripes on a watermelon, giving rise to the alternative name.
The exact cause of antral vascular ectasias is unknown, although it has been associated with underlying medical conditions like liver disease, autoimmune disorders, and chronic renal failure. The condition is commonly observed in older adults, especially women.
Patients with antral vascular ectasias typically experience symptoms such as chronic gastrointestinal bleeding, resulting in black, tarry stools (melena), blood in vomit (hematemesis), and fatigue due to iron deficiency anemia.
Diagnosis of antral vascular ectasias is often achieved through an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the gastric lining and the presence of characteristic lesions. Treatment options primarily focus on controlling the bleeding and correcting the anemia. This may involve endoscopic interventions like cauterization or laser therapy to seal off bleeding blood vessels, medications to reduce blood vessel dilation, or in more severe cases, surgical interventions like partial gastrectomy.
Overall, antral vascular ectasias is a relatively uncommon condition characterized by abnormal blood vessel enlargement in the stomach, leading to chronic gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia.
