UGIB
Medical abbreviation · Gastroenterology
| Stands for | Upper gastrointestinal bleeding |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
UGIB stands for Upper gastrointestinal bleeding, a gastroenterology abbreviation.
Bleeding from the esophagus, stomach or duodenum, classically defined as proximal to the ligament of Treitz. Peptic ulcers are the leading cause, followed by varices, esophagitis and Mallory-Weiss tears; patients present with hematemesis, coffee-ground emesis or melena.
Example: Suspected UGIB: coffee-ground emesis, BUN disproportionately elevated, start IV pantoprazole and consult GI.
Usage notes
An elevated BUN-to-creatinine ratio supports an upper source because digested blood protein is absorbed and converted to urea. Variceal bleeding in cirrhosis is handled differently, with octreotide, antibiotic prophylaxis and band ligation. Guidelines recommend endoscopy within 24 hours for most patients. Some sources write UGIH, for upper GI hemorrhage.
Related abbreviations
More gastroenterology abbreviations
- AH – Alcohol-associated hepatitis
- AIH – Autoimmune hepatitis
- ALD – Alcohol-associated liver disease
- ALF – Acute liver failure
- AP – Acute pancreatitis
- APC – Argon plasma coagulation
- BE – Barrett's esophagus
- BRBPR – Bright red blood per rectum
- CD – Crohn's disease
- CHS – Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
- CP – Chronic pancreatitis
- CRC – Colorectal cancer
See all 85 gastroenterology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.