Abstract

Rendu-Osler-Weber disease is characterized by hereditary transmission, and by the presence of multiple telangiectases of the skin, mucous membranes, and internal organs. We present a case of Rendu-Osler-Weber disease with bleeding from gastric telangiectases that was successfully treated by endoscopy with the use of argon plasma coagulation (APC). A 65-year-old woman presented with melena. Endoscopy disclosed multiple telangiecatses in the whole stomach. APC was performed at an output of 50 W and with an argon gas flow rate of 2 L/min. Only multiple ulcers at the treated sites were seen 7 days after the procedure and fibrotic scars with contracted mucosal folds without active bleeding signs were noted 2 months later. (Korean J Gastrointest Endosc 2008;36:14-17)

• Keywords: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasis, Rendu- Osler-Weber disease, Argon plasma coagulation