GI & Liver » Lower GI

Melaena

Black and tarry stools (melaena) are usually a sign of bleeding in the GI tract. It usually occurs from bleeding in the upper GI tract, most commonly from the stomach or duodenum. Commonest causes are peptic ulcer, variceal bleed, cancer stomach and erosion induced by drugs like NSAIDs, Aspirin and steroids. Patient also may present with signs of anemia indicating chronic blood loss. Although exact cause must be found, melaena is usually not a medical emergency as the bleeding is slow.

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