Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 23, 2025
Author Spotlight: Advancements in Retroperitoneal Approach for Necrotizing Pancreatitis
Published on: March 15, 2024
Retroperitoneal duodenal perforation due to COVID-19: An extremely rare case report
Foolad Eghbali1, Mansour Bhahdoust2, Elham Khanafshar3
1Department of Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Division of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, Rasool-e Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Introduction And Importance:
Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are the most common extrapulmonary presentation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. GI perforation may be an unusual manifestation of COVID-19 infection.
Case Presentation:
We report a 45-year-old man who presented with acute abdominal pain without any respiratory symptoms to our emergency department. Investigations revealed retroperitoneal duodenal perforation and fibrotic changes in lung bases. Laboratory findings demonstrated a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 and mild leukocytosis.
Clinical Discussion:
COVID-19 related perforation of the retroperitoneal part of the duodenum is extremely rare, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case. With increasing COVID-19 infection, we might see more cases of GI perforation. In the era of COVID-19 pandemic, any abdominal signs and symptoms should alert the clinicians to consider COVID-19 diagnosis in the differential.
Conclusion:
Conservative management with close monitoring, antibiotic therapy and serial examinations were completely successful. The patient's general condition improved, and he was discharged on day 7 of hospitalization.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
01:22Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus....
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...