Meckel's diverticulum (Paediatrics)

Low urgency
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Inflammation of the Meckel's diverticulum, a 'pocket' in the wall of the lower part of the small intestine. It occurs when this pocket doesn't close at birth, when the foetal connection between the intestine and the umbilical cord doesn't close.

The inflammation is usually secondary to an infection.

Symptoms may include abdominal pain, blood in the stool, nausea and vomiting.

The diagnosis is made based on the patient's history, a physical examination and additional tests such as blood and stool tests, imaging tests such as CT scan and/or scintigraphy.

Surgery is recommended to remove the diverticulum if there is bleeding.

Bibliographic references
  1. Meckel´s diverticulum and ectopic epithelium: Evaluation of a complex relationship. J Indian Assoc Pediatr Surg 2014, pp. 85-89.
  2. Diagnosis and management of pediatric apendicitis, intussusception, and Meckel diverticulum. Surg Clin N Am 2012, pp. 505-526.
  3. Meckel´s Diverticulum: a review. Clin Anat 2011, pp. 416-422. 
  4. Meckel''s diverticulum: a systematic review. J R Soc Med 2006, pp. 501-505. 
  5. Meckel Diverticulum: Radiologic features with pathologic correlation. Radigraphics 2004 pp. 565-587.
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Symptoms

    Pain in the middle of the abdomen


    Tar-like stools


    Abdominal pain increases with pressure


    Stools with fresh blood


    Irritability

Symptoms to watch out for

Acute belly pain
Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Inability to evacuate the intestine or pass gases
Vomit with faeces