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Chilaiditi Syndrome Presenting as Partial Colonic Obstruction
Eric J Basile1, Ammar Ahmed1, Eraad Rahman2
1Internal Medicine, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York City, USA.
Cureus
|April 13, 2022
Summary
Chilaiditi syndrome, a rare cause of bowel obstruction, occurs when the colon is between the liver and diaphragm. Prompt diagnosis prevents unnecessary surgery and healthcare costs.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Chilaiditi sign is an incidental radiographic finding of bowel between the liver and diaphragm.
- It is often asymptomatic but can lead to Chilaiditi syndrome, a rare cause of bowel obstruction.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed colonic interposition with mild dilatation, consistent with Chilaiditi syndrome.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with bowel obstruction secondary to Chilaiditi syndrome.
- Conservative management, including IV fluids and bowel rest, resulted in rapid recovery.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis of Chilaiditi syndrome can prevent misdiagnosis of pneumoperitoneum and unnecessary emergency surgery.
- Recognizing this rare etiology reduces healthcare costs and patient complications.
- Conservative management is often effective, but surgical intervention is viable for severe cases.
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