Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Digestive Disorders
Open AccessDigestive Hemorrhages at Tengandogo University Hospital: Sociodemographic, Diagnostic, and Outcome Aspects
Authors: Sandrine Marie-Odile Bobilwindé Soudré/Héma, Safieta NIKIEMA, Nonvignon Carrel Abdias ABOUE, Stella PARE, Abel Sawadogo, Hakani Nathalie Beni/Da, Nanelin Alice Guingané, Steve Léonce Zoungrana, Sosthène Somda, Arsène Roger Sombié, Moussa Diarra, Appolinaire Sawadogo.
Abstract
Introduction: Digestive hemorrhages represent a major gastroenterological emergency. In resource-limited settings, their diagnostic evaluation and management remain challenging. The aim of this study was to describe the sociodemographic, diagnostic, and outcome characteristics of digestive hemorrhages at the CHU of Tengandogo (CHUT) in Ouagadougou.
Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection based on the records of patients admitted for digestive hemorrhage at CHUT. Patients aged 15 years and older who were admitted for digestive hemorrhage between April 15, 2013, and September 14, 2023, were included. Sociodemographic, clinical, and endoscopic data were collected.
Results: Among 284 recorded cases, 215 were included. The mean age was 51.32 ± 18.28 years, with a male predominance (77.2%); male-to-female ratio = 3.39). Upper gastrointestinal bleeding accounted for 63.3% (n = 136) and lower gastrointestinal bleeding for 36.7% (n = 79). Hematemesis (37.2%) and hematochezia (43.3%) were the main forms of presentation. Upper endoscopy primarily identified gastric ulcers (30.2%), duodenal ulcers (18.4%), and erosive gastropathy (22.1%). In lower endoscopy, hemorrhoids were predominant (57.8%). The mortality rate was 4.65%.
Conclusion: Gastrointestinal bleeding mainly affects middle-aged adults, with a male predominance. The causes are dominated by gastroduodenal ulcers and hemorrhoids. These results reflect the etiologic profile observed in other resource-limited settings and highlight the importance of digestive endoscopy as a key diagnostic tool. A better understanding of the distribution of lesions responsible for gastrointestinal bleeding can guide prevention strategies and the prioritization of healthcare resources in similar contexts.
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