Spontaneous Perforation of Meckel’s Diverticulum: An Unusual Cause of Peritonitis in an Adult

Abstract

Meckel’s diverticulum (MD) is a congenital gastrointestinal abnormality that rarely causes symptoms but may also cause perforation, obstruction, and gastrointestinal bleeding. It is more common in paediatric population and occurrence of complications like perforation in adults are seldom reported in the literature. We present the case of a 49-year-old male who exhibited sudden onset abdominal pain, distension, and bilious vomiting. Surgical exploration revealed the presence of a gangrenous and perforated Meckel’s diverticulum. The importance of considering MD as a potential source of abdominal symptoms even in adults and the difficulties in diagnosing perforated MD are highlighted in this case.