Perforation of jejunal diverticulum: case report and review of literature

Abstract

We report the case of a 90-year-old woman, previously diagnosed with jejunal and colonic diverticula, who presented with left lower quadrant abdominal pain suggesting either colonic diverticulitis or ischemic colitis. A computed tomography scan revealed a perforated jejunal diverticulum with abscess formation. The patient promptly was treated surgically without complications. A review of the literature indicates the rarity of perforation of jejunal diverticula and the difficulty of early diagnosis. We discuss the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of this rare entity. It is important for primary care physicians to be familiar with this disease. Delay in work-up often results in catastrophic consequences.