Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 26, 2026
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
[A case of chronic gastrointestinal bleeding from a Meckel's diverticulum detected by wireless capsule endoscopy]
Sun Min Park1, Hoon Jai Chun, Yoon Tae Jeen
1Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Digestive Disease and Nutrition, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Meckel's diverticulum is an embryonic derivative of the omphalomesenteric duct and the most commonly encountered congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract. Its incidence records about 2%. Among them, only 5% are symptomatic with complications-bleeding, intestinal obstruction, inflammation, and perforation. In particular, bleeding is a common complication and has always been caused by an ulceration of the ileal mucosa adjacent to the acid-producing ectopic mucosa in a Meckel's diverticulum. Wireless capsule endoscopy is a new method enabling non-invasive diagnostic endoscopy of the entire small intestine. We experienced a case of Meckel's diverticulum detected by wireless capsule endoscopy in a 34 year-old man who presented with chronic obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
Insights
Meckel
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Embryology
- Diagnostic Endoscopy
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital gastrointestinal anomaly, arising from the omphalomesenteric duct.
- It affects approximately 2% of the population, with symptomatic complications occurring in about 5%.
Observation:
- Bleeding is a frequent complication, often caused by ectopic acid-producing mucosa within the diverticulum leading to adjacent ileal ulceration.
- A 34-year-old male presented with chronic obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
Findings:
- Wireless capsule endoscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, successfully detected Meckel's diverticulum in the patient.
- This case highlights the utility of capsule endoscopy in diagnosing obscure gastrointestinal bleeding originating from Meckel's diverticulum.
Implications:
- Wireless capsule endoscopy offers a valuable, non-invasive approach for diagnosing Meckel's diverticulum and its associated bleeding complications.
- Early and accurate diagnosis can lead to timely intervention and improved patient outcomes for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Endoscopic Procedures III: Video Capsule Endoscopy
01:28Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...