Intestinal hemorrhage in the elderly

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the elderly is a common cause of hospitalization and frequently results in significant morbidity and mortality. While GI bleeding is common in the population in general, management of the elderly population is especially challenging due to the high incidence of comorbid medical conditions. Intestinal hemorrhage in the elderly can be further complicated by antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications that both predispose this population to occult or massive bleeding. These therapeutic agents make control of the bleeding source challenging. Understanding the unique issues facing the elderly patient with GI bleeding is critical for clinicians to effectively care for this population.