Background Portal hypertension caused by cirrhosis is the most common etiology of esophageal varices. However, abnormalities of the spleno-portal axis in the absence of liver disease may also cause portal hypertension resulting in varices. We report a rare case of esophageal variceal bleed in a non-cirrhotic patient with isolated splenomegaly secondary to chronic G-CSF therapy. Aims This report outlines the case of a patient with Cohen Syndrome (CS) who presented with an upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleed in the setting of previously documented splenomegaly and portal hypertension. We expand on the clinical investigations, diagnosis, treatment plan and hospital course of this patient. Methods Case report, review of literature. Results A 26-year old male with previously diagnosed CS presented with large volume hematemesis and pancytopenia. CS is a rare autosomal recessive disorder. In our patient this manifested with congenital neutropenia, microcephaly, retinal dystrophy and global developmental delay. He required long term G-CSF therapy to manage chronic neutropenia and subsequently developed splenomegaly, a known side effect. The most recent MRI identified stable splenomegaly with a craniocaudal length of 23 cm, normal liver size and no radiographic evidence of cirrhosis. The imaging was also significant for gastroesophageal and splenorenal varices but no ascites or recanalization of the umbilical vein. A recent liver biopsy had shown mild pericellular fibrosis with no active liver disease or cirrhosis. In the past, the patient had declined EGD, therapeutic splenectomy or assessment of hepatic venous pressure gradient through invasive venography. His liver enzymes, bilirubin and albumin had always been within normal limits. The patient had no history of GI bleeding. Previous investigations for hematologic malignancies or myelodysplastic syndrome had been negative. Upon admission, an urgent EGD revealed active variceal bleeding in the esophagus and portal gastropathy. Given the extent of his congenital orofacial abnormalities a variceal band ligator could not be passed for appropriate intervention. The patient was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit and managed with intravenous proton pump inhibitor, octreotide, as well as transfusions of packed red blood cells, platelets and fresh frozen plasma. Within the next 48 hours, the patient underwent successful transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and CT-guided coil placements for the bleeding varices. Conclusions This is a rare case of variceal bleed in a non-cirrhotic patient with portal hypertension from iatrogenic splenomegaly. While there are previous reports of spontaneous splenic rupture secondary to G-CSF therapy we are the first to report variceal bleed as a complication. This is a life-threatening consequence that requires urgent intervention and intensive care.
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