Lower GI haemorrhage

Question 1

Define LGIB

Answer 1

Gastrointestinal bleeding that occurs distal to the ligament of Treitz.

Question 2

Define massive LGIB

Answer 2

Massive LGIB presents with some or
all of the following:
· Passage of large amounts of red or
maroon blood per rectum (haematochezia)
· Haemodynamic instability or shock
· An initial haemoglobin of 8g/dl or less
· The need to transfuse more than 2U of blood
· Bleeding that continues for 3 days
· Significant rebleeding within a week

Question 3

Aetiology of LGIB

Answer 3

· Diverticulosis
· Angiodysplasia
· Colitis
· Neoplasia
· Haemorrhoids and other anorectal disorders
· Drug related