What condition would you suspect in a patient with lower abdominal pain and a lower GI bleed?

Lower abdominal pain accompanied by a lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleed can point to a particular set of conditions, and in this context, the suspicion of Meckel's diverticulum is well-founded. This condition is characterized by the presence of a remnant of embryonic tissue in the ileum, which can lead to complications such as diverticulitis, bleeding, or obstruction. In cases where it bleeds, the resulting hematochezia (passage of fresh blood through the anus) typically arises from the ileal mucosa's ulceration due to peptic acid secreted by ectopic gastric or pancreatic tissue that may be present in the diverticulum.

Hirschsprung's disease is often associated with symptoms like chronic constipation and abdominal distention, primarily because it leads to an aganglionic segment of the colon, preventing stool passage. While it can sometimes produce abdominal pain, it is less associated with significant lower GI bleeding.

Appendicitis usually presents with right lower quadrant pain and can occasionally lead to peritonitis but does not typically result in a significant lower GI bleed.

Cystic fibrosis primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems but would more likely cause abdominal pain from bowel obstruction or pancreatitis, rather than acute lower GI bleeding.