Hepatic artery aneurysm: an unusual cause for gastrointestinal haemorrhage

Emerg Med J. 2005 Apr;22(4):302. doi: 10.1136/emj.2003.010405.

Abstract

Aneurysms of the hepatic artery are rare. The presenting features include abdominal pain, which may be associated with a mass. More acutely, patients present with signs of hypovolaemia secondary to rupture. The patient reported here presented with gastrointestinal haemorrhage of unknown aetiology. A computed tomography scan showed an aneurysm of a visceral artery. Subsequent angiography confirmed the presence of a leak in the hepatic artery. The patient refused surgical intervention and improved with supportive treatment only.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aneurysm / complications*
  • Emergencies
  • Female
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Hepatic Artery*
  • Humans