A Case of Idiopathic Retroperitoneal Fibrosis Triggering Recurrent Gastrointestinal Bleeding

TL;DR

A rare case of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis caused recurring gastrointestinal bleeding and was successfully treated with surgery and steroids.

Contribution

This report documents a previously unrecorded presentation of IRF causing gastrointestinal bleeding.

Findings

IRF can manifest as recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding and severe anemia.

Fibrous tissue encasement of mesenteric vessels led to ischemic damage.

High-dose corticosteroids and surgical resection resolved symptoms.

Abstract

Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis (IRF) is a rare condition characterized by fibrous tissue proliferation in the retroperitoneal space, commonly affecting the ureters and other abdominal structures. This case report describes a previously undocumented presentation of IRF in a 52-year-old female, who presented with recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding and severe anemia over six months. Diagnostic workup included endoscopy, colonoscopy, abdominal computed tomography (CT), and biopsy, revealing fibrous encasement of the mesenteric vessels leading to ischemic damage and gastrointestinal bleeding. Treatment involved high-dose corticosteroids and surgical resection of the fibrotic tissue, which resulted in complete resolution of symptoms. The aim of this case report is to highlight this unique presentation of IRF, discuss the diagnostic challenges, and explore effective treatment strategies for managing this rare but significant complication.

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