title: Primary aortoenteric fistula to jejunum: a case report.
abstract: Primary aortoenteric fistula (PAEF) is a well-known but rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. The diagnosis can be difficult since the majority of patients do not have classical symptoms. "Herald bleed" is usually followed by a massive hemorrhage. Endoscopy and radiographic studies can assist in diagnosis. We present the case of 56-year-old male with PAEF who presented with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopic studies were unremarkable. Computed tomography (CT) in this stable but symptomatic patient helped in establishing diagnosis of PAEF. Patient underwent laparotomy with aortobifemoral graft placement. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis and prompt appropriate surgical intervention are crucial for survival of these patients.
authors.affiliation: Section of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, 7 North Pavilion, Room 526, P.O. Box 26307, OKC, OK 73216, USA.
authors.forename: Nadeem A
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Chaudhary
authors.forename: Layth
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Saymeh
authors.forename: Verapan
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Vongthavaravat
authors.forename: Richard F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Harty
mesh_terms: D017544:Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005402:Fistula / Q000150:complications*; D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007412:Intestinal Fistula / Q000150:complications*; D007579:Jejunal Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D007813:Laparotomy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed