Meckel's diverticulum cancer

Meckel's Diverticulum Cancer: A Rare but Serious Condition

Meckel's diverticulum, a congenital anomaly of the small intestine, is associated with an increased risk of cancer. The risk of cancer within a Meckel's diverticulum is 70-fold higher than in the rest of the ileum [4]. This rare condition can lead to the development of various types of tumors, including neuroendocrine tumors and carcinoids.

Types of Tumors

The most common type of tumor associated with Meckel's diverticulum is a neuroendocrine tumor. These tumors originate from the entero-chromaffin cells in the small intestine [2]. They can occur in any anatomical region of the small intestine, including the ileum where Meckel's diverticulum is typically located.

Incidence and Prevalence

Meckel's diverticulum cancer is a rare condition, but it is more common than previously thought. Studies have shown that approximately 5% of resected Meckel's diverticulums are associated with malignant tumors [1]. The prevalence of Meckel's diverticulum in the general population is estimated to be around 0.9-3.0% [9].

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of Meckel's diverticulum cancer can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the individual's overall health. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, and changes in bowel habits. A definitive diagnosis is typically made through surgical resection and histopathological examination.

Conclusion

Meckel's diverticulum cancer is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. While it is more common than previously thought, the risk of cancer within a Meckel's diverticulum remains relatively low. However, early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing mortality rates.

References

[1] by K van Malderen · 2018 · Cited by 43 [2] by SA Kabir · 2019 · Cited by 30 [4] by AB Lowenfels · 2011 · Cited by 7 [5] Jan 17, 2019 [6] by KK NYGAARD · 1937 · Cited by 36 [7] by PJ Javid · Cited by 20 [8] by DR Principe · 2022 · Cited by 6 [9] by A Mayer · 2024 · Cited by 1

Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital condition affecting the small intestine, not a type of cancer. However, complications from Meckel's diverticulum can lead to symptoms that may be similar to those experienced with certain types of cancer.

Common signs and symptoms:

• Painless rectal bleeding (most common symptom)
• Dark red or maroon blood in stool
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)

Less common complications:

• Bowel obstruction (blockage of the intestine)
• Intestinal perforation (hole in the intestine)
• Infection

It's essential to note that Meckel's diverticulum itself is not a cancerous condition. However, if left untreated, complications from Meckel's diverticulum can lead to more severe health issues.

References:

• [3] Meckel diverticulum is one of the most common congenital abnormalities.
• [10] Symptoms occur only if the diverticulum bleeds, becomes infected or causes an obstruction.
• [13] Though symptoms from Meckel's diverticulum are unusual in adults, they can happen at any age.

In rare cases, complications from Meckel's diverticulum may be misdiagnosed as cancer. However, a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can help manage these complications and prevent further health issues. If you suspect you or your child has symptoms related to Meckel's diverticulum, consult a medical professional for proper evaluation and care.

Meckel's diverticulum, also known as a Meckel's diverticulectomy, can sometimes be associated with malignancy. In such cases, the diagnostic tests used to confirm the presence of cancer in the diverticulum are crucial for proper treatment.

According to various medical sources [12][13], the diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum in association with malignancy is typically established through a combination of imaging studies and surgical exploration.

• Imaging Studies: The most useful diagnostic tool in cases where malignancy is suspected is the technetium-99m pertechnetate scan (Meckel's scan) [12]. This imaging test can help identify the presence of cancer cells within the diverticulum.
• Surgical Exploration: In some cases, surgical exploration may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of symptoms. During surgery, a sample of tissue from the diverticulum is examined for cancer cells [13].

Other diagnostic tests that may be used in conjunction with imaging studies and surgical exploration include:

• Computed Tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan can help identify any abnormalities within the diverticulum and surrounding tissues [3].
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI can provide detailed images of the diverticulum and surrounding tissues, which can be helpful in diagnosing malignancy [3].

It's worth noting that a bleeding Meckel diverticulum diagnosis can also be established by other tests such as Meckel scan or mesenteric arteriography, double-balloon enteroscopy, and capsule endoscopy. However, if diagnostic testing is inconclusive, or the patient is hemodynamically unstable, either laparotomy or laparoscopy may be indicated to determine whether a Meckel's diverticulum is the cause of symptoms [14].

References: [3] - Mar 8, 2019 — Plain radiography, barium studies, angiography, computed tomography (CT), and ultrasonography all play complementary roles in the diagnosis of the ... [12] - Many people with Meckel's diverticulum remain asymptomatic for their entire lives. The majority of symptomatic patients present before the age of 2 years. Gastrointestinal bleeding is a common presenting symptom in children and adults. The most useful diagnostic tool in cases with bleeding is the technetium-99m pertechnetate scan (Meckel's scan). [13] - Diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum in association with malignancy As shown in Figure 2 , 3/19 patients underwent MD removal at the time of surgery, with coincidental identification of NET or GIST on pathological examination; 14/19 cases underwent surgery for an indication of preoperatively diagnosed malignancy in the abdomen with additional ... [14] - A bleeding Meckel diverticulum diagnosis can be established by Meckel scan or mesenteric arteriography, double-balloon enteroscopy, and capsule endoscopy. However, if diagnostic testing is inconclusive, or the patient is hemodynamically unstable, either laparotomy or laparoscopy is indicated to determine whether a Meckel's diverticulum is the ...

Meckel's diverticulum cancer, also known as neoplasms arising from Meckel's diverticulae, is a rare condition that requires careful consideration of differential diagnoses.

Common Differential Diagnoses:

• Colorectal cancer/polyps: These are common conditions that can present with similar symptoms to Meckel's diverticulum cancer.
• Hemorrhoids: Internal and external hemorrhoids can cause lower gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a common symptom of Meckel's diverticulum cancer.
• Anal fissure: This condition can also cause lower gastrointestinal bleeding and may be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Other Conditions to Consider:

• Gastrointestinal duplications: These are rare congenital anomalies that can present with similar symptoms to Meckel's diverticulum cancer.
• IgA nephropathy: This is a kidney disease that can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Key Points to Consider:

• Age and sex: Meckel's diverticulum cancer typically affects older adults, while other conditions like hemorrhoids and anal fissure are more common in younger individuals.
• Symptoms: Lower gastrointestinal bleeding is a common symptom of Meckel's diverticulum cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions.
• Imaging studies: Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI may be necessary to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.

References:

• [6] Neoplasms occurring from Meckel's diverticulum, even though rare, should be considered as differential diagnosis of pelvic masses arising from bowel.
• [8] These tumors are commonly benign, like leiomyomas, angiomas, and lipomas, and the majority of malignant neoplasms are adenocarcinoma, sarcoma, ...
• [11] Diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum in association with malignancy As shown in Figure 2 , 3/19 patients underwent MD removal at the time of surgery, with coincidental identification of NET or GIST on pathological examination;