[Spontaneous perforation of the rectum. One case (author's transl)]

A 48-year-old man, operated upon with a diagnosis of perforation of a hollow viscus, in whom a spontaneous perforation of the rectum was discovered. Such perforations are rare since only 36 cases have been reported in the literature. The mechanism is unknown and various factors have been suggested, including increased pressure or local ischaemia. Treatment is rendered difficult by local infection and the frequently fragile general condition of the patients.