Perforation of jejunal diverticulum: case report and review of literature

Conn Med. 2000 Jan;64(1):7-10.

Abstract

We report the case of a 90-year-old woman, previously diagnosed with jejunal and colonic diverticula, who presented with left lower quadrant abdominal pain suggesting either colonic diverticulitis or ischemic colitis. A computed tomography scan revealed a perforated jejunal diverticulum with abscess formation. The patient promptly was treated surgically without complications. A review of the literature indicates the rarity of perforation of jejunal diverticula and the difficulty of early diagnosis. We discuss the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of this rare entity. It is important for primary care physicians to be familiar with this disease. Delay in work-up often results in catastrophic consequences.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / etiology*
  • Abscess / etiology
  • Abscess / surgery
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Diverticulum / complications*
  • Diverticulum / diagnosis
  • Diverticulum / surgery
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Perforation / diagnosis*
  • Intestinal Perforation / etiology
  • Intestinal Perforation / surgery
  • Jejunal Diseases / complications*
  • Jejunal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Jejunal Diseases / surgery
  • Laparotomy
  • Treatment Outcome