Obstructing Sigmoid Volvulus: An Unusual Complication in a Pediatric Patient With Ulcerative Colitis

ACG Case Rep J. 2023 Mar 2;10(2):e00998. doi: 10.14309/crj.0000000000000998. eCollection 2023 Feb.

Abstract

Acute colonic dilation in pediatric patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) raises a concern for toxic megacolon, but other rare conditions such as sigmoid volvulus may present in a similar manner. We report a rare case of a teenager with UC without prior surgery who developed an obstructing sigmoid volvulus managed with endoscopic detorsion and decompression. Colonic inflammation in patients with UC may result in a volvulus in the absence of other predisposing factors and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with UC who present with obstructive symptoms with an atypical presentation.

Keywords: colonic dilation; colonic distension; pediatric IBD; pediatric ulcerative colitis; sigmoid volvulus; volvulus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports