Colonoscopic Profile of Patients with Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding at Various Age Groups in a Tertiary Care Center: Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Background: Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) originates from a source distal to the ligament of Treitz and commonly presents with hematochezia. Colonoscopy is used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes of LGIB.

Aims and objectives: This study is done to understand the clinical and colonoscopic profile and to identify the common causes of LGIB in patients of various age groups.

Materials and methods: A total of 156 patients presenting with LGIB admitted in the gastroenterology department from January 2023 to December 2023 are enrolled. Colonoscopy is performed after achieving hemodynamic stability. Study population is divided into three groups, group A (up to 18 years), group B (18–50 years), group C (above 50 years).

Results: LGIB is more common in males (n = 100) than females (n = 56). Most common cause is hemorrhoids (39.7%, n = 62) followed by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (12.79%, n = 19), colorectal growth (10.25%, n = 16), radiation proctitis (8.97%, n = 14), nonspecific colitis (4.48%, n = 7), polyps (3.86%, n = 6), fissure (3.86%, n = 6), and solitary rectal ulcer (3.2%, n = 5). Other causes includes carcinoma anal canal (n = 2), portal hypertensive colopathy and rectal varices (n = 2), and telangiectasias in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (n = 2). Normal colonoscopy study is seen in 9.6% (n = 15). Hemorrhoids is the most common cause of LGIB in group B and C. Seven patients with hemorrhoids underwent endoscopic or surgical intervention. Colorectal growth is more common in group C. IBD is more common in group B.

Conclusion: Hemorrhoids is the most common cause of LGIB. The timely diagnosis of the lesion helps in reducing morbidity and mortality. Colonoscopy is strongly recommended for evaluation and management of LGIB.

Publication History

Article published online:
22 April 2024