An unusual association: gastric xanthelasma presenting with iron deficiency anemia: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Gastric xanthelasma is a rare, benign lesion with uncertain clinical significance. Despite its asymptomatic nature, it may coexist with conditions like chronic gastritis and iron deficiency anemia.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 71-year-old Turkish male presented with iron deficiency anemia, chronic fatigue, and upper abdominal pain. Endoscopy revealed yellowish-white plaques (2-6 mm) on the antral mucosa, confirmed as gastric xanthelasma on histopathology. Concurrently, a rectal sessile polyp was excised during colonoscopy. The patient recovered following a 3-month course of oral iron supplementation and proton pump inhibitors. Follow-up endoscopy showed resolution of gastric lesions.

CONCLUSION

This report underscores the diagnostic importance of endoscopy and biopsy in patients with unexplained anemia and highlights the potential association between gastric xanthelasma and ron deficiency anemia, warranting further research.