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Published on: July 21, 2023
A unique case of inverted Meckel's diverticulum presented as an adult intussusception: a case report
Elias E Lahham1, Bashaer I Iwaiwi1, Silvia Halteh1
1Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine.
Abstract:
Although Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a relatively common asymptomatic gastrointestinal anomaly, an inverted MD is a rare entity that is challenging to diagnose prior to surgery and presents usually in the pediatric population with bleeding, anemia and abdominal pain. The most frequent adult presentation in non-inverted MD is intestinal obstruction, whereas bleeding and anemia are the most typical presenting complaints in inverted MD. Here, we report our experience with an adult female patient, who presented with 5 days duration of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Imaging revealed signs of small bowel obstruction with bowel wall thickening in the terminal ileum and a double target appearance. This case describes a rare cause of adult intestinal intussusception because of inverted MD, which was successfully managed with surgery. The final pathology report confirms the diagnosis.
Insights
Inverted Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a rare cause of adult intestinal intussusception. This case highlights a successful surgical management of this rare condition in an adult female patient.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a common congenital gastrointestinal anomaly.
- Inverted MD is a rare variant, often presenting in pediatric patients with bleeding or anemia.
Observation:
- An adult female presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Imaging revealed small bowel obstruction with terminal ileum thickening and a double target sign.
Findings:
- The patient's condition was diagnosed as intestinal intussusception secondary to inverted MD.
- Surgical intervention was successfully performed, with pathology confirming the diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering inverted MD in adult intussusception, despite its rarity.
- Early diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for favorable outcomes in inverted MD presentations.

