Diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum at the age of 54 by capsule endoscopy

We report the case of a 54-year-old man who presented with hematochezia and acute anemia (hemoglobin level 5 g/dL). Upper endoscopy and colonoscopy were negative. Capsule endoscopy (Pillcam SB3; Given Imaging, Yoqneam, Israel) performed 7 days after the bleeding episode revealed a double lumen image in the ileum ([Video 1]). No active bleeding was found. A probable diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum was suggested. Technetium-99 m pertechnetate scintigraphy (Meckel’s scan) was negative. The patient was referred for surgery for Meckel’s diverticulectomy. The Meckel’s diverticulum was in the ileum, 40 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve, and measured 4 cm ([Fig. 1], [Fig. 2]). Histological findings confirmed Meckel’s diverticulum.

Video 1 Capsule endoscopy revealed a double lumen image in the ileum of a 54-year-old man. No active bleeding was found.

Fig. 1 Laparoscopic surgery revealed Meckel’s diverticulum in the ileum, 40 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve.

Fig. 2 Meckel’s diverticulectomy: surgical specimen.

Meckel’s diverticulum is the most frequent gastrointestinal malformation; its prevalence has been estimated at 2 % in the general population. It occurs in the antimesenteric region, in the last 60–100 cm of the ileum. Symptomatic Meckel’s diverticulum is described as a condition found predominantly in children and adolescents, and as infrequent in adults over 40 years old [1] [2]. Gastrointestinal bleeding has been described as one of the most frequent clinical manifestations. Generally, conventional imaging procedures have not suggested the diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum, and some publications have reported that the sensitivity and specificity of Meckel’s scan are low in adults (62 % and 9 % respectively). Capsule endoscopy is a useful diagnostic test for Meckel’s diverticulum. Double lumen is the most frequent finding, followed by polypoid structure and circumferential ulceration [2] [3] [4].

Endoscopy_UCTN_Code_CCL_1AC_2AF

Publication History

Article published online:
09 August 2021

• References

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