Peristomal varices are indicative of which condition?

• A. Granulomas
• B. Short stoma
• C. Indicative of liver disease and portal HTN
• D. Normal skin around stoma

Answer: (C)

Peristomal varices indicate liver disease with portal hypertension. When the portal venous system is pressed by high pressure, blood finds collateral pathways to return to the heart, and veins around the stoma can dilate into varices. This reflects underlying liver dysfunction, such as cirrhosis or other causes of portal hypertension, rather than local skin irritation or stoma mechanics. The presence of these varices signals an elevated risk of bleeding and usually prompts evaluation of liver function and portal pressure, with appropriate medical management and possible hepatology consultation. Granulomas are inflammatory nodules from irritation or infection, a short stoma refers to stoma length and fit issues, and normal skin around the stoma would not have variceal veins.