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A Tumor-Like Inverted Meckel's Diverticulum: The Culprit Behind Adult Ileal Intussusception and a Diagnostic Pitfall
Hiroyuki Tokue1, Hiroaki Yamada1, Yoshito Tsushima1
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, JPN.
Abstract:
Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a rare but important differential diagnosis for adult intussusception, particularly when presenting with atypical imaging features, such as a tumor-like mass. Inverted MD with hemorrhagic necrosis is exceedingly rare and may mimic neoplastic lesions. A 65-year-old man presented with acute abdominal pain and distension. He had experienced intermittent abdominal discomfort and a single episode of hematochezia two months prior to presentation. Abdominal computed tomography revealed an ileo-ileal intussusception with a round, high-attenuation mass at the lead point. Surgical resection was performed owing to concerns regarding malignancy. Intraoperatively, an inverted MD with hemorrhagic necrosis was identified. Histology confirmed ectopic gastric mucosa in the MD. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful. This case highlights a rare presentation of adult intussusception caused by an inverted necrotic MD mimicking an intraluminal tumor. Recognizing this condition is crucial, especially in patients with unexplained abdominal pain or prior gastrointestinal bleeding. MD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of distal ileal masses to ensure an accurate diagnosis and timely management.
Insights
An inverted Meckel's diverticulum (MD) with necrosis can mimic a tumor, causing adult intussusception. Early recognition of this rare condition is vital for accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is a congenital anomaly.
- Intussusception in adults is uncommon and often associated with a lead point, frequently malignancy.
- Atypical presentations of MD can complicate diagnosis.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old male presented with acute abdominal pain and distension.
- Imaging revealed ileo-ileal intussusception with a mass mimicking a tumor.
- Symptoms included prior intermittent discomfort and hematochezia.
Findings:
- Surgical resection identified an inverted Meckel's diverticulum with hemorrhagic necrosis.
- Histopathology confirmed ectopic gastric mucosa within the diverticulum.
- The patient recovered well postoperatively.
Implications:
- Inverted necrotic Meckel's diverticulum is a rare cause of adult intussusception.
- This condition can mimic intraluminal tumors on imaging.
- Consider MD in the differential diagnosis of distal ileal masses, especially with unexplained abdominal pain or GI bleeding.
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