PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is a rare benign small bowel tumor associated with occult bleeding and Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome?

1. Hemangiomas

2. GISTs

3. Hamartomas

4. Lipomas

The correct answer is: Hemangiomas

Hemangiomas are indeed rare benign tumors that can occur in the small bowel and are associated with occult gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly in patients with Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, also known as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. This condition leads to the formation of abnormal blood vessels and results in an increased tendency to bleed, especially from vascular lesions. Hemangiomas present as vascular lesions that can lead to significant bleeding, which may not always be immediately obvious, hence the term "occult" bleeding. In the context of Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, the abnormal vascularity from hemangiomas can exacerbate the bleeding complications seen in these patients. Recognizing the potential for hemangiomas to cause gastrointestinal bleeding is crucial in the management of patients with this syndrome, as timely diagnosis and treatment may be necessary to prevent serious complications. The other types of tumors mentioned, such as GISTs (gastrointestinal stromal tumors), hamartomas, and lipomas, have different clinical presentations and associations that do not specifically relate to Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome. For instance, GISTs are typically malignant or neoplastic and are more related to mutations in specific genes rather than vascular lesions. Hamartomas are developmental mal