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Recurrent small intestinal perforation from gastric mucosal heterotopia: A case report
Zhi-Wang Li1, Tao-Feng Jiang2, Cheng-Kun Yang1
1Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou 514031, Guangdong Province, China.
Background:
Gastric mucosal heterotopia (GMH) is a rare, typically asymptomatic condition characterized by ectopic gastric mucosa in tissues outside the stomach. However, it can lead to severe complications, including small intestinal perforation. This case report highlights the unique clinical presentation of GMH-induced recurrent small intestinal perforations, which has been rarely documented. These findings emphasize the importance of considering GMH in patients with unexplained recurrent gastrointestinal perforations.
Case Summary:
A 13-year-old female presented with acute abdominal pain. Her medical history included four prior surgeries for small intestinal perforations. Enhanced computed tomography revealed localized bowel thickening and perforation, prompting emergency surgery. A 20 cm segment of the ileum was resected and anastomosed. Pathological analysis confirmed extensive GMH with ulceration and perforation, identifying GMH as the cause of the recurrent perforations. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well with no recurrence by the 10-month follow-up.
Conclusion:
GMH should be considered in cases of recurrent unexplained intestinal perforations.
Insights
Gastric mucosal heterotopia (GMH) can cause rare but severe small intestinal perforations. This case highlights GMH as a critical consideration for unexplained recurrent gastrointestinal perforations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Gastric mucosal heterotopia (GMH) is ectopic gastric tissue outside the stomach, usually asymptomatic.
- GMH can cause severe complications, notably small intestinal perforation.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old female presented with recurrent small intestinal perforations requiring multiple surgeries.
- Imaging showed localized bowel thickening and perforation.
Findings:
- Pathological analysis confirmed GMH as the cause of extensive ulceration and perforation in the ileum.
- The patient recovered well post-resection and anastomosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering GMH in patients with unexplained recurrent intestinal perforations.
- Early diagnosis and consideration of GMH can prevent severe complications.
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