Meckel Diverticulum

Meckel Diverticulum is a small pouch in the lower part of the small intestine that some people are born with. It is a leftover piece from when the baby was developing in the womb. This condition affects the digestive system and can sometimes cause problems like bleeding or pain in the belly. Many people with this pouch never have symptoms, but it can lead to intestinal blockage or infection. The pouch may contain tissue similar to the stomach or pancreas, which can cause irritation. Doctors often find it when investigating unexplained abdominal symptoms or bleeding. Understanding this condition helps explain some causes of abdominal pain in children and adults.

Meckel Diverticulum is a congenital true diverticulum of the distal ileum resulting from incomplete obliteration of the vitelline (omphalomesenteric) duct. It contains all layers of the intestinal wall and may harbor ectopic tissue, most commonly gastric mucosa or pancreatic tissue, which can secrete acid and cause ulceration. The diverticulum is typically located within 2 feet of the ileocecal valve and is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract. Clinically, it may present with painless lower gastrointestinal bleeding, intestinal obstruction, or inflammation mimicking appendicitis. The presence of ectopic acid-secreting mucosa is a key factor in symptom development. Complications include bleeding, intussusception, volvulus, and diverticulitis. Recognition of this anomaly is important for differential diagnosis of abdominal pain and GI bleeding in children and young adults.