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Meckel's diverticulitis in an elderly man diagnosed by computed tomography

J Nagler1, J L Clarke, S A Albert

  • 1Department of Medicine, The New York Presbyterian Hospital, NY, USA.

Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|January 15, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Meckel's diverticulum, a common congenital anomaly, can cause complications in adults, not just infants. Computed tomography aids in diagnosing Meckel's diverticulitis, even without bleeding.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Meckel's diverticulum is the most frequent congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Complications typically manifest in children under 2 years, often presenting as gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Traditional diagnostic methods include radionuclide scintigraphy and intraoperative findings.

Observation:

  • A 71-year-old male presented with acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain.
  • The patient did not exhibit gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Computed tomography (CT) suggested Meckel's diverticulitis.

Findings:

  • Surgical confirmation of Meckel's diverticulitis in the elderly patient.
  • Demonstration that Meckel's diverticulitis can occur and be diagnosed in older adults.
  • CT scan proved effective in the preoperative diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulitis.

Implications:

  • Meckel's diverticulum complications should be considered across all age groups.
  • Computed tomography is a valuable tool for the preoperative diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulitis.
  • This case expands the understanding of Meckel's diverticulum presentation and diagnosis in the adult population.

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