Coexistence of cecal duplication cyst and Meckel's diverticulum presenting as intestinal obstruction: A case report

Enteric duplication cysts (EDC) are rare anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract, with only 0.4 % occurring in the cecum. Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a common congenital anomaly affecting up to 2 % of the population. The simultaneous occurrence of these two conditions is rare with no existing guideline on treatment.

An 11-month-old boy presented with fever, vomiting, and abdominal distension. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan confirmed the diagnosis of an enteric duplication cyst causing intestinal obstruction. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy, during which a cecal duplication cyst measuring 30 × 20 mm was found along with MD in the distal ileum. Right limited hemicolectomy was performed. Histopathological examination revealed features consistent with an enteric duplication cyst and the presence of gastric mucosal heterotopia.

Differentiating EDC from MD is a significant challenge, as both can present with similar symptoms and be positive on a Tc-99 m radionuclide scan. The final diagnosis of EDC and MD can only be made by correlating the imaging findings with the surgical findings and pathological features.

Cecal duplication cysts should be considered a differential diagnosis in infants who present with intestinal obstruction. Although their presentation may resemble that of Meckel's diverticulum, both conditions can coexist. Excision of duplication cysts in children is considered a safe and efficient treatment approach.