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Case for Thought: Meckel's Diverticulum in the Adult Population
Melanie N Rayan1, Xiaolan Tang1, Maher Khazem1
1Internal Medicine, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Graduate Medical Education/HCA Florida North Florida Hospital, Gainesville, USA.
Abstract:
Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a well-known gastrointestinal (GI) congenital anomaly that is generally considered a disorder in neonates or a "clinically silent" disorder in adults. While prevalent in children, MD is not often considered as a differential in the etiology of GI bleeding in the adult population. We describe a case of MD presenting as a copious GI bleed in a 65-year-old male, which was found after numerous diagnostic studies. Our case report aims to challenge the idea that Meckel's diverticulum is solely a neonatal disorder, identify this vitelline duct remnant as a potential cause of GI pathology in the adult population, and discuss the detection and management of this congenital abnormality when found in the older population.
Insights
Meckel's diverticulum (MD), a congenital anomaly, can cause significant gastrointestinal bleeding in adults, not just neonates. This case highlights MD as a potential cause of GI pathology in older populations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a congenital gastrointestinal anomaly typically diagnosed in neonates or presenting asymptomatically in adults.
- It is often overlooked as a cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in the adult population.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old male presented with severe gastrointestinal bleeding attributed to Meckel's diverticulum.
- Diagnosis required extensive diagnostic investigations.
Findings:
- Meckel's diverticulum can manifest as significant gastrointestinal bleeding in adults.
- This vitelline duct remnant should be considered in the differential diagnosis of adult GI pathology.
Implications:
- Challenges the perception of Meckel's diverticulum as exclusively a neonatal disorder.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering MD in adult patients with gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Discusses diagnostic and management strategies for Meckel's diverticulum in older individuals.
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