A rare cause of intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Leiomyoma of the small bowel.

As a result of infrequent occurrence, small bowel tumors of the intestine offer a diagnostic challenge. A spectrum of presentations are possible, ranging from vague abdominal symptoms to life-threatening intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Contrast radiographs are helpful in diagnosis but additional studies may be necessary. Treatment is usually simple excision. The prognosis of benign tumors is excellent. Because of the non-specificity of signs and symptoms of small bowel tumors, a high index of suspicion is required, especially since these lesions themselves can be dangerous and often occur in the age group for intra-abdominal malignancy.