Cameron lesions

Cameron lesions are linear gastric ulcers or erosions on the crests of mucosal folds in the neck of a hiatus hernia. They are named after the British surgeon Allan Burns Cameron who first described them in 1986. These lesions are relatively rare and are often associated with large hiatal hernias. They can cause chronic iron deficiency anemia and acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Etiology

The exact cause of Cameron lesions is not known. However, they are thought to be caused by mechanical trauma from the hernia sac sliding up and down through the diaphragmatic hiatus, as well as from acid and pepsin injury to the trapped gastric mucosa.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with Cameron lesions may be asymptomatic or may present with symptoms related to anemia such as fatigue, weakness, and pallor. In severe cases, patients may present with hematemesis or melena due to acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Cameron lesions is usually made by esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). The lesions appear as linear ulcers or erosions on the crests of mucosal folds in the neck of a hiatal hernia.

Treatment

The treatment of Cameron lesions depends on the severity of the lesions and the symptoms. Asymptomatic patients may not require treatment. For symptomatic patients, treatment options include acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors, iron supplementation for anemia, and in severe cases, surgical repair of the hiatal hernia.

Prognosis

The prognosis of Cameron lesions is generally good with appropriate treatment. However, recurrence is common, especially in patients with large hiatal hernias.

See Also

• Hiatus hernia
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy