The term ''ectopic varices'' is sometimes reserved for abnormally dilated veins associated with gastrointestinal mucosa and, therefore, with the potential for gastrointestinal hemorrhage. However, the term has also been used loosely to describe portosystemic collateral veins in the abdominal wall and retroperitoneum. The distinction between ''ectopic varices'' and collaterals that are commonly found on the abdominal wall and retroperitoneum of patients with portal hypertension is one of semantics. Thus, ectopic varices may be best defined as large portosystemic venous collaterals occurring anywhere in the abdomen except in the cardioesophageal region.
Ectopic varices are an unusual cause of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, but account for up to 5% of all variceal bleeding. The clinician caring for patients with gastrointestinal bleeding must be aware of this entity, because diagnosis and management of ectopic varices differ from that of esophagogastric varices. Furthermore, the prognosis from bleeding ectopic varices may be poor, with one study quoting 40% mortality at initial bleed from duodenal varices. The literature on this subject consists mainly of small series and case reports with no randomized trials of therapeutic modalities. However, a review of the literature does provide sufficient information from which rational management decisions can be made.