Gastrocolic fistula complicating benign gastric ulcer: case report and review of literature.

A review of the literature and report of a case of benign gastrocolic fistula indicate that epigastric pain is the most frequent early symptom. Later, the predominant symptoms are diarrhea, weight loss and feculent vomiting. Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and taking steroids appear to be particularly at risk of developing a gastrocolic fistula. Barium enema is the most reliable method of demonstrating the fistula. Preferred management is a one-stage gastrocolic resection and primary anastomosis.