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How is Acute Lower GI Bleeding Diagnosed?
Published: Dec 02, 2023
Diagnosing acute lower GI bleeding is crucial to managing and treating this condition effectively. Let's explore the methods used to identify the sources of bleeding.
Initial Evaluation Steps
The first step in diagnosing acute lower GI bleeding involves a thorough medical history and a physical examination. Doctors look for signs of bleeding, such as changes in stool color, and assess the patient's overall stability. Lab tests are also crucial, helping determine if the bleeding might be from the upper GI tract.
Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard
A colonoscopy is often the go-to procedure for diagnosing acute lower GI bleeding. It allows doctors to visually inspect the colon for sources of bleeding and even perform therapeutic interventions. While it requires bowel preparation, its ability to locate and sometimes treat bleeding makes it invaluable.
Other Diagnostic Tools
For patients with severe or ongoing bleeding, additional tools like CT angiography might be used. This imaging test can quickly identify active bleeding sites, helping guide further interventions. However, it involves radiation and contrast dye, so it's used selectively.
When Bleeding Source is Elusive
Sometimes, the source of bleeding isn't immediately clear, even after initial tests. In such cases, additional tests like capsule endoscopy or push enteroscopy might be needed. These help explore deeper into the digestive tract when the bleeding site is not evident.
Frequently Asked Questions
A thorough history and physical examination are the first steps.
It's a procedure that inspects the colon for bleeding sources.
Additional tests like CT angiography or capsule endoscopy may be used.
It uses imaging to detect active bleeding sites, but involves radiation.
They help assess the severity and potential source of bleeding.
Wrapping Up
Diagnosing acute lower GI bleeding involves several steps to ensure effective treatment.
References
- Oakland K, Chadwick G, East JE, et al. Diagnosis and management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: guidelines from the British Society of Gastroenterology. Gut 2019; 68:776.
- Sengupta N, Feuerstein JD, Jairath V, et al. Management of Patients With Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: An Updated ACG Guideline. Am J Gastroenterol 2023; 118:208.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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