A case of retroperitoneal abscess: A rare complication of Meckel's diverticulum

Jeana Hong1, Sung Bae Park2

  • 1Department of Pediatric, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea.

Abstract

Insights

Perforated Meckel

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Case Reports

Background:

  • Meckel's diverticulum frequently causes hemorrhage, obstruction, inflammation, and perforation.
  • Retroperitoneal abscess is an exceptionally rare complication of Meckel's diverticulum.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a rare case of perforated Meckel's diverticulum presenting as a retroperitoneal abscess.
  • To highlight the importance of considering Meckel's diverticulum in the differential diagnosis of retroperitoneal abscesses.

Main Methods:

  • A case report of a 31-year-old patient presenting with severe abdominal pain.
  • Diagnostic imaging included abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealing pneumoperitoneum and retroperitoneal abscesses.
  • Surgical intervention involved segmental ileum resection of the affected Meckel's diverticulum.

Main Results:

  • The patient presented with acute epigastric and periumbilical pain.
  • CT scan confirmed pneumoperitoneum, retroperitoneal abscesses, and mesenteric infiltration.
  • A perforated Meckel's diverticulum was identified as the cause.

Conclusions:

  • Retroperitoneal abscesses are rare but significant complications of Meckel's diverticulum perforation.
  • Meckel's diverticulum should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with retroperitoneal abscesses.

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