Inverted Meckel's diverticulum: an entity simulating an ileal polyp

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital anomaly of the small intestine.
• Prolapsed Meckel's diverticula typically present acutely in childhood as intussusception, often causing bowel obstruction.
• Chronic, unexplained iron deficiency anemia can be a rare presenting symptom of gastrointestinal pathology.

Observation:

• A case of inverted Meckel's diverticulum is described.
• The diverticulum presented as an ileal polyp.
• The patient suffered from chronic unexplained iron deficiency anemia.

Findings:

• The inverted Meckel's diverticulum mimicked an ileal polyp on clinical examination.
• This unusual presentation occurred in an older adult, unlike the typical pediatric demographic for prolapsed Meckel's diverticula.
• The diagnosis was clinically unexpected due to the atypical presentation.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering rare gastrointestinal pathologies in the differential diagnosis of unexplained iron deficiency anemia.
• It underscores the variability in Meckel's diverticulum presentation, even in adulthood.
• The findings suggest that inverted Meckel's diverticulum, though rare, should be considered in adults with symptoms suggestive of intraluminal masses or chronic bleeding.