Imaging Findings of Small Bowel Diverticulitis: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Abdominal Imaging

Background:

• Small bowel diverticulitis is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain, often presenting similarly to other intra-abdominal conditions.
• Timely diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications associated with diverticulitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of recognizing small bowel diverticulitis in the emergency department.
• To emphasize the role of imaging modalities in diagnosing this uncommon condition.

Main Methods:

• Case report of an 81-year-old male with a history of cancer and bowel resections presenting with abdominal pain.
• Utilized abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan for diagnostic evaluation.

Main Results:

• Ultrasound findings suggested diverticulitis.
• CT scan revealed ileitis with phlegmon and micro-abscess, indicative of small bowel diverticulitis.
• The patient's presentation mimicked other intra-abdominal processes.

Conclusions:

• Emergency department providers should be aware of small bowel diverticulitis and its ultrasound findings.
• Prompt diagnosis via imaging expedites appropriate treatment, similar to colonic diverticulitis.