Timely diagnosis of perforated jejunal diverticulitis by computed tomography

J Emerg Med. 2013 Mar;44(3):614-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2012.02.046. Epub 2012 May 11.

Abstract

Background: Perforated jejunal diverticulitis is an unusual entity that can present with acute abdominal pain. Due to the non-specific clinical findings, this condition is rarely diagnosed clinically.

Case report: We present the case of a 75-year-old man in whom a perforated jejunal diverticulitis complicated by abscess formation was diagnosed by computed tomography (CT). He underwent a laparotomy with resection of the involved jejunal segment. He had an uneventful recovery and was subsequently discharged.

Conclusions: This case report demonstrates the utility of CT in accurately diagnosing this unusual entity that frequently perplexes clinicians.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / complications
  • Aged
  • Diverticulitis / complications
  • Diverticulitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Perforation / etiology
  • Jejunal Diseases / complications
  • Jejunal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Mesentery
  • Peritoneal Diseases / complications
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*