Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) encompasses the gastric mucosal changes occurring in the setting of portal hypertension,both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic. Its significance lies in causing acute gastrointestinal bleeding and insidious chronic blood loss presenting as iron deficiency anemia. Diagnosis of PHG is straight-forward, made endoscopically often characterized by a mosaic-like pattern resembling ‘snake-skin’, with or without red spots. Treatment of acute GI bleed is hemodynamic stabilization, vasoconstrictor therapy, antibiotic prophylaxis, non-selective beta-blockers. Endoscopic treatment like APC has a small role. In severe cases, TIPS and shunt surgery can be offered. Secondary prophylaxis of PHG bleeding with non-selective b-blockers is recommended.
Keywords: Portal hypertension, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Cirrhosis, Beta-blockers
