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Unveiling the rarity: A case report of giant peritoneal loose body
Abdudin Heru Mehammed1, Natnael Alemu Bezabih2, Muluken Yifru Gebresilassie1
1Department of Radiology, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Abstract:
Peritoneal loose bodies, also referred to as peritoneal mice, are formed by torsion of epiploic appendages detaching from the large bowel, subsequently becoming loose within the peritoneal cavity. While often discovered incidentally during laparotomy or autopsy, emerging reports suggest they can manifest with diverse symptoms. Here, we present a 61-year-old patient experiencing lower abdominal pain and irritative voiding symptoms, ultimately diagnosed with a giant peritoneal loose body measuring 6.5 cm. Computed tomography (CT) imaging showed a well-circumscribed soft-tissue density mass with central calcifications, which was later confirmed during surgery. Only a few cases have been reported on giant peritoneal loose bodies. We also highlight characteristic features of imaging to establish the correct diagnosis.
Insights
Peritoneal loose bodies, also known as peritoneal mice, are rare abdominal masses. This case highlights a giant peritoneal loose body presenting with abdominal pain and urinary symptoms, emphasizing the importance of imaging for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Imaging
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Peritoneal loose bodies, or 'peritoneal mice,' originate from detached epiploic appendages of the large bowel.
- While often asymptomatic and incidentally found, they can present with varied clinical symptoms.
