http://medicine.med.nyu.edu/gastro/conditions-we-treat/conditions/angiodysplasia-colon
Definition
Angiodysplasia of the colon occurs when enlarged and fragile blood vessels in the colon result in occasional bleeding in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Causes
Angiodysplasia of the colon can be caused by:
Increased age
Colon spasms that enlarge blood vessels in the area
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your risk of angiodysplasia of the colon include:
Age: over 60
Injury to the GI tract
Heart problems
Kidney problems
Lung problems
von Willebrand's disease—a disorder of the blood
Blood vessel problems
Normal contractions of the colon
Symptoms
Symptoms of angiodysplasia of the colon may include:
Bleeding from the rectum
Anemia
Weakness
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Dark, tarry stools
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Your bodily fluids and waste may be tested. This can be done with:
Blood tests
Stool tests
Your internal structures may need to be viewed. This can be done with:
Colonoscopy
Upper endoscopy (EGD)
Radiology testing with CT scan
Angiography
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment may not be necessary, since about 90% of cases of angiodysplasia of the colon stop bleeding on their own. Treatment options include the following:
Colonoscopy
Your doctor can often burn tissues with heat to seal bleeding blood vessels during a colonoscopy.
Angiography
The blood supply to the bleeding area can be clotted through angiography.
Medical Therapy
Hormonal therapy with estrogen can be helpful for some causes.
Surgery
Surgery to remove the affected area of the colon may sometimes be necessary.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent angiodysplasia of the colon.
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