Melena (Greek melas = black) is a medical term for black tarry stool due to blood in the stool, usually originating from the upper gastrointestinal tract (stomach or above).

The term is sometimes publicly (but not medically) used for a black vomit.  

It is important to differ between melena and black bowel movement from reasons, other than bleeding.


Further Reading :
  • Acute Ischemic Colitis – Symptoms, Signs, Diagnosis, Treatment
  • Bowel Bleeding ~ Medical Terminology
  • Blood in Your Stool & Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
  • What Is Normal Bowel Movement Color?
  • Black Bowel Movement & Black Diarrhea – Causes