Life-threatening gastro-intestinal haemorrhage in Von Recklinghausen's disease

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF-1), also known as Von Recklinghausen's disease, is a common disorder, but gastrointestinal manifestations are rare and can be associated with severe complications and malignancy. We describe a case of multiple intestinal tumours, which presented as major per-rectal bleeding and was diagnosed by laparotomy. Presenting symptoms of this condition are usually non-specific, but the risk of malignancy and perforation should allow for a high index of suspicion in patients with NF-1 presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms. We present this case as a reminder that blood loss from the bowel in Von Recklinghausen's disease may be life-threatening, requiring immediate surgery to control haemorrhage.