Lower gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage is a frequently encountered and challenging
clinical problem. GI bleeding scans are extremely useful for localizing the source
of GI bleeding before interventional radiology procedures. It is essential that physicians
understand the numerous possible pitfalls when interpreting these scans. Understanding
the potential causes of false-positive scan interpretation eliminates unnecessary
procedures for the patient and minimizes costs. We report a rare case of an 8-year-old
boy who presented with GI bleeding. Upper and lower GI endoscopy did not reveal a
source of bleeding. We emphasize case of Meckel′s diverticulum appearing as a proximal
jejunum false-positive site of bleed on bleeding scan. In addition, we reinforce the
criteria needed for diagnosis of GI bleeding site on the nuclear bleeding scan. A
high index of suspicion is the most important diagnostic aid that can prevent the
nuclear medicine physicians from misdiagnosing the site of lower GI hemorrhage.
Keywords
Chronological site of bleed - distal ileal bleed - meckel′s diverticulum
