Gastroduodenal artery aneurysm rupture in hospitalized patients: An overlooked diagnosis

Abstract

Gastroduodenal artery (GDA) aneurysm rupture is a rare serious condition. The diagnosis requires a high level of suspicion with specific attention to warning signs. Early diagnosis can prevent fatal outcomes. In this report, we describe a case of GDA aneurysm rupture presenting as recurrent syncope and atypical back and abdominal discomfort. The rupture manifested as hemorrhagic shock. The diagnosis was made by computed tomography of the abdomen which showed acute peritoneal and retroperitoneal bleeding. Angiographic intervention failed to coil the GDA and surgery with arterial ligation was the definitive treatment.