Patient case: Mallory-Weiss Syndrome
A 45-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a sudden onset of vomiting blood (hematemesis) after a night of heavy alcohol consumption. The patient reports multiple episodes of forceful vomiting prior to noticing the blood. He has a history of occasional alcohol use but denies any previous episodes of vomiting blood or significant gastrointestinal issues. On examination, the patient appears slightly pale, with a rapid pulse and mild abdominal tenderness, particularly in the upper abdomen. His blood pressure is stable, and there are no signs of severe shock. The patient denies any use of anticoagulant medications.
An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy reveals a longitudinal tear at the gastroesophageal junction, consistent with a diagnosis of Mallory-Weiss syndrome. The patient is admitted for observation and given intravenous fluids. He is counseled on reducing alcohol consumption to prevent future episodes.
Plan: The tear is expected to heal on its own with supportive care, and the patient is advised to avoid heavy lifting or straining activities for the time being.
A) Peptic ulcer disease
B) Mallory-Weiss syndrome
C) Esophageal varices
D) Gastritis
A) Heavy alcohol consumption
B) Hypertension
C) Diabetes mellitus
D) Smoking
A) Blood test
B) Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
C) Abdominal ultrasound
D) CT scan of the abdomen
A) Surgical intervention
B) Observation and supportive care with intravenous fluids
C) Antibiotics
D) Chemotherapy
Answers
1. B) Mallory-Weiss syndrome
2. A) Heavy alcohol consumption
3. B) Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
4. B) Observation and supportive care with intravenous fluids
