Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 29, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Massive Lower GIT Bleeding in a 67 y.o Male

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • B. Diverticulosis: This is the most common cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in adults over 60 years old. The patient's age and history of chronic constipation, which can increase intraluminal pressure and contribute to diverticula formation, support this diagnosis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • A. Angiodysplasia: This condition is more common in the elderly and can cause significant lower GI bleeding. The patient's age makes this a plausible diagnosis.
  • C. Colonic cancer: Although less common than diverticulosis as a cause of lower GI bleeding, colonic cancer is still a significant consideration, especially given the patient's age, which puts him in a higher risk category for colorectal cancer.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • D. Peptic ulcer disease: Although more commonly associated with upper GI bleeding, peptic ulcers can occasionally cause lower GI bleeding, especially if the ulcer is located in the duodenum or stomach and erodes into a nearby structure. The patient's use of Clodrel (an antiplatelet agent) for ischemic heart disease increases the risk of bleeding from a peptic ulcer.
  • Ischemic colitis or other vascular events: Given the patient's history of ischemic heart disease and use of antiplatelet therapy, ischemic events affecting the bowel could lead to bleeding and should not be overlooked.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Meckel's diverticulum: A congenital anomaly that can cause lower GI bleeding, usually in younger patients but can be considered in the differential diagnosis of any age group if common causes are ruled out.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause lower GI bleeding but are less common in new presentations at this age without prior symptoms.
  • Hemorrhoids or anal fissures: While common causes of lower GI bleeding, they typically present with smaller amounts of blood and are less likely to cause "massive" bleeding as described in the scenario.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.