[Lipomatosis of the ileocecal valve]

Lipomatosis of the ileocecal valve is a diffuse infiltration of the submucous coat with fat cells. This syndrome is discussed on the basis of a personal observation and a review of the literature. The characteristic endoscopic picture is the overgrown, yellowish lips of Bauhin's valve prolapsing into the cecum, reminiscent of a uterine cervix. Coloscopy with biopsy is therefore the method of choice in assuring proper diagnosis. On the other hand, radiology cannot recognize the disease with certainty. Generally treatment of this benign syndrome is only necessary in the event of disturbances. As a surgical procedure ileocecal resection is suggested.