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[Diagnostic image (122). A boy with serious rectal bleeding. Meckel's diverticulum]
M G Peetsold1, F J W ten Kate, D C Aronson
1Kinderchirurgisch Centrum Amsterdam, Locatie VU Medisch Centrum, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|February 13, 2003
Summary
A negative Meckel scan initially missed a Meckel's diverticulum in an 11-year-old boy with rectal bleeding. Barium imaging later confirmed the diagnosis, highlighting its utility in diagnosing obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Rectal bleeding in children can stem from various causes, including Meckel's diverticulum.
- Diagnostic challenges arise when initial investigations are inconclusive.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old male presented with significant rectal bleeding.
- Meckel scintigraphy results were initially negative.
- A subsequent barium small bowel follow-through was performed.
Findings:
- The barium study revealed a small contrast accumulation outside the ileal contour.
- This finding was attributed to a Meckel's diverticulum.
- The diagnosis was confirmed despite the negative Meckel scintigraphy.
Implications:
- Barium small bowel follow-through can be a valuable tool for diagnosing Meckel's diverticulum when scintigraphy is negative.
- This case underscores the importance of considering alternative diagnostic modalities for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Accurate diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum is crucial for appropriate management and preventing complications.