Meckel's diverticulum is an outpouching or bulge in
the lower part of the small intestine. The bulge is congenital (present at
birth) and is a leftover of the umbilical cord. Meckel's diverticulum is the
most common congenital defect of the gastrointestinal tract. It occurs in about
2-3 percent of the general population.
What causes Meckel's diverticulum?
Meckel's diverticulum occurs in a fetus early in the
pregnancy. Normally, the vitelline duct, which connects the growing fetus with
the yolk sac, is absorbed into the fetus by the seventh week of the pregnancy.
When the vitelline duct is not fully absorbed, a Meckel's diverticulum develops.
A Meckel's diverticulum may contain cells from both
the stomach and pancreas. Cells from the stomach can secrete acid, which can
cause ulcers and bleeding.
Who gets Meckel's diverticulum?
Though about 2-3 percent of the population get
Meckel's diverticulum, it causes symptoms in only a small number of those
people. People can live their whole lives without ever knowing they have
Meckel's diverticulum. The condition is equally common among males and females,
but males are two to three times more likely to have complications.
What are the symptoms of Meckel's diverticulum?
Symptoms of Meckel's diverticulum usually occur during
the first year of a child’s life, but can occur into adulthood.
Symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (which can be seen in the stool)
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Tenderness near the navel (belly button)
- Obstruction of the bowels, a blockage that keeps the contents of the
intestines from passing. This can cause pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting.
- Diverticulitis (swelling of the intestinal wall)
The most common symptom in children under five is
bleeding, which is caused by ulcers that develop in the small intestine when the
diverticulum secretes stomach acid. Bowel obstruction occurs more often in older
children and adults. Diverticulitis can occur at any age, but is most common in
older children. Tumors can occur mainly in adults; these are a rare symptom of Meckel's diverticulum.
If your child exhibits any of the above symptoms, you should see your pediatrician or health care provider immediately.
How is Meckel's diverticulum diagnosed?
Meckel's diverticulum can be difficult to diagnose.
Many of the symptoms, such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and tenderness, can
occur in several different conditions. If your child's health care provider
feels that the combination of symptoms suggests Meckel's diverticulum, he or she
will order certain tests. These include: