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Hemangioma of the esophagus: An unusual cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding

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Summary

Hemangioma of the esophagus is a very rare condition with only 23 clinical cases being reported. Hemangiomas make up 2–3% of benign esophageal neoplasms, and the esophagus is the least common site of gastrointestinal hemangiomas. A 56-year-old male with recurrent bleeding was shown to have a hemangioma of the middle third of the esophagus and resection of the lesion cured this problem.

From a review of the reported cases it is seen that, in the esophagus, hemangiomas may grow to a very large size and develop a long pedicle. Hemorrhage and obstruction are the two most common presentations. Endoscopy and barium swallow are diagnostic in most cases but even large tumors may be missed by both. Endoscopic biopsy has not been associated with significant bleeding and is helpful in excluding malignancy, especially if ulceration is present. Once diagnosed in the symptomatic patient, treatment should be instituted because of these complications. Surgery is the treatment of choice due to its effectiveness and safety, but endoscopic removal may be possible for small tumors and those on a pedicle.

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Hanel, K., Talley, N.A. & Hunt, D.R. Hemangioma of the esophagus: An unusual cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Digest Dis Sci 26, 257–263 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01391640

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01391640

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