Perforated jejunal diverticulum as an unsual cause of acute abdomen: A case report

Jejunal divertica is a rare entity with an often clinically silent course. However, it may be associated to life-threatening complications such as perforation. Therefore it should be considered in every case of acute abdomen.

A 60-year-old female presented with a generalized abdominal pain associated with vomiting evolving for 24 h. Physical examination found an irreducible and tender hernia in the umbilical region with abdominal guarding. Laboratory test results showed a biological inflammatory syndrome. The primary diagnosis of strangulated umbilical hernia was suspected and the patient underwent an emergency laparotomy. Intra-operative examination revealed mutiple jejunal diverticula, with a perforation in one diverticulum leading to generalized peritonitis. A bowel resection and peritoneal lavage were performed with good outcome.

Jejunal diverticula is a challenging condition with various non-specific clinical presentations. Jejunal perforation is its most feared complication. Deceitful abdominal examination among elderly patients and lack of specific signs may lead to diagnostic delay responsible for high mortality rate and poor prognosis. Adjunctive imaging modalities may be needed to help establish a prompt diagnosis and dictate management strategy. Treatment of perforated jejunal diverticulum is based on limited bowel resection associated to primary anastomosis.

Jejunal diverticulitis should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis in every case of acute abdomen. High index of clinical suspicion and eventual further radiological examinations are required to avoid misdaignosis and save patients' lives.