Angiodysplasia of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

I have reviewed the English language literature on angiodysplasia of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Angiodysplasia is a distinct mucosal vascular lesion associated with acute or chronic gastrointestinal bleeding. Its etiology is unknown, but theories of its pathogenesis have evolved from its similarity to colonic angiodysplasia and an association with renal failure. Despite recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding, the endoscopic diagnosis is difficult because the lesions are so small and so similar to fresh blood. Endoscopic ablation by electrocautery or laser photocoagulation can reduce bleeding or make it stop, but repeated treatments are often necessary.