An unusual case of intraabdominal abscess and acute abdomen caused by axial torsion of a Meckel's diverticulum.

BACKGROUND: Meckel's diverticulum (MD), the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, is a true diverticulum. MD is mostly seen in pediatric age groups but may be seen in adults as well. Is twice common in men than women. Surgical treatment is required in symptomatic MD patients. We present a 21-year-old female patient who was admitted with acute abdomen and underwent diverticulectomy with diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum.

PRESENTATION OF CASE: The 21-year-old female patient was admitted to emergency service with abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Physical examination revealed abdominal distention, rebound tenderness and defense. Abdominal radiography revealed air-fluid levels. White blood cell count was high. In the exploration, torsion of MD was observed and diverticulectomy was performed. Histopathologic analysis indicated the presence of MD. The patient recovered without complication, and was uneventfully discharged.

DISCUSSION: MD is found in 2% of the general population. Common complications of MD include gastrointestinal bleeding, intestinal obstruction, perforation and diverticulitis. However, axial torsion of MD is a rare complication. Simple diverticulectomy is sufficient in the treatment of most MD cases; however, ileal resection may be required in some cases. Diagnosis of MD is established by histopathologic analysis.

CONCLUSION: Although MD is known as a pediatric disease, it is likely to occur in adults as well. Axial torsion of Meckel's diverticulum should be kept in mind the adults presenting with symptoms of acute abdomen.