Pediatric gastrointestinal bleeding: identification and management in the emergency department.

Pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding ranges from mild and self-limited cases to severe episodes of hemorrhagic shock. A structured, age-specific approach is essential for the correct diagnostic workup and effective management. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including pediatric surgery and gastroenterology specialists, may be necessary. The goal of managing pediatric patients with GI bleeding in the emergency department is to identify and treat severe cases, while avoiding unnecessary workup and admission for patients with mild or self-resolving cases. This issue provides a comprehensive review of the definitions, causes, and management strategies for upper and lower GI bleeding in children. It also highlights existing knowledge gaps and future research directions.