Dieulafoy lesion is an abnormally large artery (a vessel that takes blood from the heart to other areas of the body) in the lining of the gastrointestinal system. It is most common in the stomach but can occur in other locations, including the small and large intestine. Dieulafoy lesions can cause severe and sudden gastrointestinal bleeding. The condition occurs in people of all ages, but is more common in males than in females.Depending upon the site of the bleeding, symptoms may include vomiting up blood (hematemesis); sticky, dark-colored stools (melena); passage of fresh blood in the stool (hematochezia); or coughing up blood (hemoptysis). Some affected individuals may only present with blood pressure problems. Treatment may include endoscopic and/or surgical techniques. Though treatment can be effective, Dieulafoy lesions and the associated blood loss can be fatal, especially if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
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