Glanzmann thrombasthenia presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a case series and review of the literature.

Background: Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is a rare autosomal recessive bleeding disorder characterized by a defect in the platelet integrin αIIbβ3. While mucocutaneous bleeding is typical, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is not uncommon and can be a potentially severe complication. Materials and methods: A total of six patients, including four female and two male individuals with type I GT, presented with massive upper GI bleeding of unknown cause. Treatment was selected based on the severity of each case and included a combination of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa), tranexamic acid, endoscopic intervention, and supportive care. Genetic studies were performed for each patient. Results: The endoscopic findings were heterogeneous, varying from normal mucosa to visible vessels, polyps, and arteriovenous malformations. All cases were managed successfully. Discussion: The unpredictable nature of GI bleeding in patients with GT highlights the need for careful clinical assessment and a multidisciplinary management approach. Bleeding control was achieved through the use of antifibrinolytic agents and recombinant factor VIIa, which also reduces the risk of platelet alloimmunization. A possible link between certain Conclusion: This case series highlights the role of careful management strategies in reducing morbidity among patients with GT and adds to the limited literature on gastrointestinal bleeding in this population.