Acute inflammation of a congenital cecal diverticulum mimicking appendicitis

Abstract

Background: Cecal diverticulitis is a relatively rare problem in the Western world. It is often clinically indistinguishable from acute appendicitis.

Case report: We present a case of a young woman who was suspected to have acute appendicitis prior to operation. At operation an unexpected and suspicious cecal mass was found and the procedure was revised to a right hemicolectomy. Subsequent histological examination revealed an acutely inflamed solitary, congenital diverticulum of the cecum.

Conclusions: We would like to highlight this uncommon condition to ensure that its first encounter is not in the operating theatre. The varied and controversial management options are briefly discussed.