| Theme |
Vascular Disorder of Gastro-intestinal Tract |
| Title |
Diagnosis and Treatment for Gastric Antral VascularEctasia (GAVE) |
| Author |
Satoshi Tanabe |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Chikatoshi Katada |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Aya Sato |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Takako Ae |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Kenji Ishido |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Wasaburo Koizumi |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) refers to the presence of vascular ectasia in the antrum on endoscopic examination. GAVE can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and is often associated with systemic diseases such as chronic liver disease, autoimmune disease, and chronic renal failure presenting with iron deficiency anemia. Endoscopically, GAVE is characterized by a typical pattern of red spots organized in stripes, departing radially from the pylorus (i. e., so-called "watermelon stomach"). Narrow Band Imaging with magnifying endoscope has been reported to be useful for diagnosis. Endoscopic treatment can be used to manage hemorrhage caused by GAVE. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is effective for the temporary control of hemorrhage and anemia due to GAVE, but recurrence can occur on long-term follow-up. Patients should be examined at regular intervals, and chronic liver disease and chronic renal failure should be carefully managed. Additional endoscopic therapy may be needed to treat recurrence. |