What is the medical term for a black, tarry stool indicating a GI bleed?

The medical term for a black, tarry stool that indicates a gastrointestinal bleed is melena. Melena results from the digestion of blood that has passed through the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in instances where bleeding occurs in the upper GI tract, such as from the stomach or duodenum. The appearance of the stool as black and tarry is due to the breakdown of hemoglobin as blood is digested.

This condition can signal a serious underlying health issue that requires medical evaluation and intervention. Understanding this term is crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and diagnosing conditions related to gastrointestinal bleeding. The presence of melena often prompts further investigation to identify the source of bleeding.