MASSIVE rectal bleeding from diverticular disease of the colon is infrequent.1 However, hemorrhage occurs in 10% to 30% of all cases of diverticulitis and occasionally may be life threatening.2
A case of massive hemorrhage from a single colonic diverticulum in which the bleeding site was demonstrated histologically is reported.
Report of Case
A 69-year-old white sewing machine repairman entered the emergency room of Passavant Memorial Hospital at 5:00 pm on Sept 13, 1965, because of rectal bleeding.Three days earlier the patient noticed diffuse, cramping, mild, and persistent pain in the lower abdomen. Prior to admission the bowel movements were normal. On the morning of admission, a normal bowel movement was followed by three more which were characterized by bright and red blood. A history of previous melena or change in bowel habits, nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, or cancer was not elicited. Two years prior to admission, after