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Variceal upper GI bleeding — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardGI/Abdominal emergenciesVariceal upper GI bleedingRCPSC EM

CTAS 1. A 54-year-old with cirrhosis vomits large volumes of blood. BP is 88/50 mmHg, HR 126, INR 1.8, platelets 62, and haemoglobin is 72 g/L. He is confused and has ascites. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Variceal upper GI bleeding

Cirrhosis with haematemesis, shock, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, and ascites is most consistent with variceal upper GI bleeding.

Reference: Canadian Association of Gastroenterology variceal bleeding guidance; Baveno consensus