Cecal diverticulitis as a continuing diagnostic and management dilemma: a report of two cases in children

Elaine Cheng1, Leslie Cohen, Selom Gasinu

  • 1Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA.

Insights

Right-sided diverticulitis is rare in children and often mistaken for appendicitis. Early diagnosis and prompt management are crucial for better outcomes in pediatric cecal diverticulitis cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases

Background:

  • Right-sided diverticulitis is uncommon in pediatric patients.
  • Clinical presentation frequently mimics acute appendicitis, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

  • Two cases of pediatric cecal diverticulitis are presented.
  • Diagnostic challenges in differentiating from appendicitis are highlighted.

Findings:

  • Cecal diverticulitis requires careful consideration in pediatric patients with right lower quadrant pain.
  • Preoperative diagnosis can be difficult, often necessitating surgical exploration.

Implications:

  • This condition underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in pediatric abdominal pain.
  • Effective management strategies for pediatric cecal diverticulitis are discussed based on literature review.

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