An unusual colonic duplication associated with a foreign body and anemia: a tale of 2 colons

John A Sandoval1, Megan K Dishop, Robert M Kramer

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Children's Hospital/University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.

Insights

Congenital alimentary tract duplications are rare, often presenting in infancy. This case highlights a colonic duplication mimicking a foreign body and causing anemia in a child.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Congenital Anomalies

Background:

  • Alimentary tract duplications are rare congenital anomalies.
  • They typically manifest in infancy and childhood.
  • Diagnostic challenges arise from varied clinical presentations.

Observation:

  • A child presented with symptoms suggestive of an intestinal foreign body.
  • The child also exhibited signs of iron deficiency anemia.
  • Imaging revealed a colonic duplication.

Findings:

  • The colonic duplication was the underlying cause of the child's symptoms.
  • The duplication mimicked a foreign body obstruction.
  • Iron deficiency anemia was secondary to chronic blood loss or malabsorption.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of alimentary tract duplications is crucial for timely diagnosis.
  • Colonic duplications require consideration in pediatric patients with unexplained anemia or foreign body-like symptoms.
  • Early detection and management can prevent complications associated with these anomalies.

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