Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2025

Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch
Published on: August 24, 2019
Appendicitis mimicry of dolichocolon
Kayla K Brown1, Mercedes C Jolley1, Dean A Kocay2
1Graduate Medical Education, General Surgery Residency Program, St. David's South Austin Medical Center, Austin, TX 78704, United States.
Dolichocolon, an elongated colon anatomical variant, is an underdiagnosed cause of chronic constipation. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention, like subtotal colectomy, can significantly improve patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- Dolichocolon, an anatomical variant characterized by an excessively long colon, is frequently overlooked as a primary diagnosis for chronic constipation.
- Undiagnosed dolichocolon can lead to severe, lifelong consequences impacting a patient's quality of life and overall health.
Observation:
- A case report detailing a young adult female initially presenting with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis.
- The patient's condition was ultimately diagnosed as undiagnosed dolichocolon, necessitating a subtotal colectomy for definitive treatment of chronic constipation.
Findings:
- Dolichocolon is a significant, yet under-reported, etiology of chronic constipation.
- Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and associated complications.
Implications:
- Raising awareness within the surgical community about the importance of early dolichocolon diagnosis.
- Improving patient outcomes by preventing misdiagnosis and reducing complications related to chronic constipation.
- Highlighting surgical colectomy as a definitive treatment for severe, refractory chronic constipation due to dolichocolon.
Related Concept Videos
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Appendicitis-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...
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Crohn's Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease, commonly known as IBD, refers to a collection of disorders that lead to persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The two types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which impacts the colon, and Crohn's disease, which can involve any part of the gastrointestinal segment.
Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that predominantly affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is marked by...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:

