gastrointestinal disorders
Meckel Diverticulum
Key Points
Meckel diverticulum is a common congenital sacculation of the antimesenteric border of the ileum that occasionally bleeds, becomes inflamed, or causes obstruction. Less than 25% of diverticula contain heterotopic gastric tissue that secretes hydrochloric acid, which can cause ulcers of the adjacent ileal mucosa and bleeding. Patients with Meckel diverticulitis may have pain similar to that of appendicitis. Select tests based on presenting symptoms. A Meckel scan has high sensitivity for detection of Meckel diverticulum in bleeding children. Remove symptomatic diverticula surgically. 