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Omphalolith presented with peritonitis: a case report

Hijran R Mahdi1, Hany M El Hennawy

  • 1General Surgery Department, Al Khor Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation Qatar.

Cases Journal
|November 18, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Omphalolith, a rare umbilical stone, can cause peritonitis by migrating into the abdominal cavity. This case highlights a rare complication mimicking acute appendicitis.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Omphaloliths are hard, dark umbilical concretions, sometimes mistaken for melanoma.
  • Associated conditions include seborrhea, abscess formation, and potential links to poor hygiene.
  • Clinical presentation often involves umbilical discharge and pain.

Observation:

  • This report details a rare instance of omphalolith-induced peritonitis.
  • The patient initially presented with symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis.

Findings:

  • Two umbilical stones were discovered within the peritoneal cavity.
  • These stones were identified as the cause of the induced peritonitis.

Implications:

  • Omphaloliths, though rare, can lead to severe intra-abdominal complications.
  • This case underscores the importance of considering unusual etiologies in abdominal emergencies.
  • Accurate diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are crucial for managing omphalolith-related peritonitis.

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