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| Topic: |
Digestive Diseases (DD) |
| Title: |
Meckel's Diverticulum. |
| Author: |
Martin, J.P.; Connor, P.D.; Charles, K. |
| Source: |
American Family Physician. 61(4): 1037-1042. February 15, 2000. |
| Availability: |
Available from American Academy of Family Physicians. 11400 Tomahawk Creek Parkway, Leawood, KS 66211-2672. (800) 274-2237. Website: www.aafp.org. |
| Abstract: |
Meckel's diverticulum is a true intestinal diverticulum (pouch) that is the most prevalent congenital (present from birth) abnormality of the gastrointestinal tract. This article reviews the diagnosis and management of Meckel's diverticulum. The authors stress that the diagnosis of this condition is often difficult because it may remain completely asymptomatic, or it may mimic such disorders as Crohn's disease, appendicitis, and peptic ulcer disease. Ectopic tissue, found in approximately 50 percent of cases, consists of gastric (stomach) tissue in 60 to 85 percent of cases and pancreatic tissue in 5 to 16 percent of cases. The diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum should be considered in patients with unexplained abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, or intestinal bleeding. Major complications include bleeding, obstruction, intussusception, diverticulitis (infection), and perforation. The most useful method of diagnosis is with a technetium 99m pertechnetate scan, which is dependent on uptake of the isotope in heterotopic tissue. Management is by surgical resection. A patient education handout on Meckel's diverticulum is included in the same issue. 1 figure. 1 table. 35 references. |
| Format: |
Journal Article |
| Language: |
English. |
| Major Keywords: |
Digestive System Diseases. Congenital Anomalies. Intestines. Diverticula. Diagnosis. Patient Care Management. |
| Minor Keywords: |
Diagnostic Tests. Symptoms. Complications. Diverticulitis. Surgery. Case Reports. Equipment and Supplies. |
| Publication Number: |
DDJA07621 |
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