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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
Summary
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.