A Rare Case Presentation of a Perforated Giant Sigmoid Diverticulum. (28th October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kam, Jennifer C.; Doraiswamy, Vikram; Spira, Robert S.
• Other Names: Kao Simon Ching-Shun Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in medicine. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-10-28
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Case Reports; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/957152
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1687-9627

Abstract

Abstract : Giant sigmoid diverticulum (GSD) is a rare complication of diverticulosis. These lesions arise from herniations of the mucosa through the muscle wall which progressively enlarge with colonic gas to become large air-filled cysts evident on plain X-ray and CT scans. We present a rare case of a 72-year-old female presenting with abdominal distention, abdominal tenderness, and fever who developed a type 1 giant sigmoid diverticulum (pseudodiverticulum) that subsequently formed an intra-abdominal abscess and an accompanying type 2 diverticulum as well. The patient was treated with surgical resection of the diverticulum with a primary anastomosis and abscess drainage. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful. This case helps to support the need for the consideration of GSD in patients aged 60 and older with a history of diverticulosis and presenting with abdominal discomfort and distension.