Hiatal hernia with cameron ulcers and erosions.

Cameron lesions are seen in 5.2% of patients with hiatal hernias who undergo EGD examinations. The prevalence of Cameron lesions seems to be dependent on the size of the hernia sac, with an increased prevalence the larger the hernia sac. In about two thirds of the cases, multiple Cameron lesions are noted rather than a solitary erosion or ulcer. Historically, Cameron lesions present clinically with chronic GI bleeding and associated iron deficiency anemia. With increased awareness of the existence of this lesion, however, it is now more frequently seen as an incidental finding during EGD. Cameron lesions can also present as acute upper GI bleeding, occasionally life-threatening, in up to one third of cases. Therefore, Cameron lesions should be considered in any patient in whom a hiatal hernia is noted during endoscopic examination. Concomitant acid-peptic diseases are seen in a majority of individuals, especially reflux esophagitis and its complications. Mechanical trauma, ischemia, and acid mucosal injury may play a role in the pathogenesis of Cameron lesions. The choice of therapy of Cameron lesions, medical or surgical, should be individualized for each patient. Of those patients who were treated with a spectrum of medical therapy and who have had long-term follow-up, about one third have had a recurrence of the lesion and 17% (8/48) have developed complications, most commonly either acute upper GI bleeding (6.3%) or persistent and recurrent iron deficiency anemia (8.3%).