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Published on: July 21, 2023
Unusual presentation of a curve-shaped Meckel's diverticulum detected on technetium-99m Meckel's scintigraphy
Dharmalingam Anitha1, Pawar U Shwetal1, Shetye S Suruchi1
1Department of Nuclear Medicine Surgery, Seth G.S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India.
Abstract:
Complicated Meckel's diverticulum (MD) in pediatric age group may not present with classic symptoms or signs. The routine modalities of investigations for the detection of MD are ultrasonography (US), computerized tomography, and air enema. However, these may miss the diagnosis in cases of atypical patterns of presentation. In such situations, the radionuclide Meckel scan helps to narrow down the diagnosis. The objective of this case report was to present an unusual presentation of MD where the diagnosis was established by a radionuclide scan against other methods which were equivocal. An 8-year-old boy was admitted with features of intestinal obstruction. 99mTc-pertechnetate Meckel's scintigraphy showed localization of tracer in ectopic gastric mucosa. The surgical exploration after the Meckel's scan revealed a curve-shaped MD localized 50 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. The surgery was completed after a diverticulectomy, and the patient was relived of symptoms. MD scintigraphy can help detect ectopic gastric mucosa in cases of unusual presentation by considering the atypical presentation, variation in shape, and location on Meckel's scan and improve the disease management.
Insights
Complicated Meckel
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Complicated Meckel's diverticulum (MD) often presents atypically in children.
- Standard imaging like US and CT can miss diagnoses with unusual presentations.
Observation:
- An 8-year-old boy presented with intestinal obstruction.
- Initial imaging was equivocal for Meckel's diverticulum.
Findings:
- 99mTc-pertechnetate Meckel's scintigraphy successfully identified ectopic gastric mucosa.
- Surgical exploration confirmed a curved Meckel's diverticulum 50 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve.
Implications:
- Radionuclide Meckel's scan is valuable for diagnosing atypical MD presentations.
- Accurate diagnosis via scintigraphy improves pediatric surgical management of Meckel's diverticulum.
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