In what scenarios should I consider urgent referral for a patient with dyspepsia or gastrointestinal bleeding?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer immediately (on the same day) to a specialist for patients presenting with dyspepsia together with significant acute gastrointestinal bleeding .

Consider a very urgent full blood count within 48 hours for unexplained bleeding, bruising, or petechiae, which may indicate serious underlying conditions such as leukaemia .

Refer using a suspected cancer pathway referral for dyspepsia with weight loss in patients aged 55 and over, or with symptoms such as dysphagia, or reflux with weight loss .

Refer using a suspected cancer pathway referral for unexplained anal mass or ulceration, rectal mass, or if there are symptoms suggestive of oesophageal or stomach cancer, such as persistent or significant symptoms .

Consider urgent investigations such as a CT scan within 2 weeks for patients with nausea or vomiting with weight loss in those aged 60 and over, or with upper abdominal pain and weight loss in those aged 55 and over .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.