Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome: Extensive small bowel vascular lesions responsible for gastrointestinal bleeding

Abstract

Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome is a rare condition characterised by multiorgan venous malformations, in particular of cutaneous area and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We report here a child with chronic iron deficiency anaemia, melena and skin lesions. She had severe hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Upper and lower endoscopy revealed hundreds of red-bluish polypoid lesions involving the entire GI tract primarily of the small bowel. Due to localisation of the most severe lesions, the patient responded well to surgical treatment, allowing a sustained clinical remission. © 2009 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (Royal Australasian College of Physicians).