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Massive gastrointestinal bleeding from Meckel diverticulum with ectopic pancreatic tissue

Jian-feng Yang1, Lei-min Sun, Xian-fa Wang

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.

Chinese Medical Journal
|March 3, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Meckel diverticulum (MD) with ectopic pancreatic tissue caused massive gastrointestinal bleeding in an adult. This rare condition can present as painless lower GI bleeding, requiring consideration in differential diagnoses.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Meckel diverticulum (MD) is a congenital anomaly typically seen in pediatric cases.
  • Adult presentations of MD, particularly with ectopic pancreatic tissue, are less common.

Observation:

  • A 69-year-old female presented with massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhagic shock.
  • The bleeding was attributed to a Meckel diverticulum containing ectopic pancreatic tissue.

Findings:

  • Gastrointestinal bleeding from MD with ectopic pancreatic tissue is a rare cause of lower GI bleeding in adults.
  • Preoperative diagnosis of this condition is challenging.

Implications:

  • Meckel diverticulum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of massive, painless lower gastrointestinal bleeding in adults.
  • Early recognition and surgical intervention are crucial for managing such rare cases.

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