Simultaneous idiopathic segmental infarction of the great omentum and acute appendicitis: a rare association
2008

Rare Case of Omental Infarction with Appendicitis

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Battaglia Luigi, Belli Filiberto, Vannelli Alberto, Bonfanti Giuliano, Gallino Gianfrancesco, Poiasina Elia, Rampa Mario, Vitellaro Marco, Leo Ermanno

Primary Institution: Fondazione IRCCS 'Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori'

Hypothesis

Idiopathic segmental infarction of the greater omentum can occur simultaneously with acute appendicitis.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of considering omental infarction even when acute appendicitis is diagnosed.

Supporting Evidence

  • The incidence of idiopathic segmental infarction of the greater omentum is estimated to be 0.1% of total laparotomies for acute abdomen.
  • More than 100 cases have been reported, but its association with acute appendicitis is rare.
  • The patient presented with symptoms mimicking acute appendicitis but was found to have omental infarction during surgery.
  • Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of omental infarction and phlegmonous acute appendicitis.

Takeaway

Sometimes, when someone has a stomach ache that looks like appendicitis, it can actually be a problem with a part of the stomach called the omentum.

Methodology

Case report of a 47-year-old woman with acute abdomen diagnosed with appendicitis, who was found to have omental infarction during surgery.

Limitations

Only one case is reported, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

47-year-old woman with no significant previous medical history.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1749-7922-3-30

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