Appendicitis mimicry of dolichocolon

Abstract

Abstract Dolichocolon is an under-reported, under-diagnosed etiology of chronic constipation that is often overlooked as being a primary diagnosis. We present a case of an undiagnosed dolichocolon in a young adult female whose initial presentation was concerning of appendicitis. Eventually, the patient underwent a subtotal colectomy as a definitive treatment for chronic constipation. Dolichocolon is an anatomical variant that can have severe lifelong consequences, such as chronic constipation, which greatly affects a patient’s quality of life and overall health if undiagnosed. The purpose of this case report is to raise awareness among the surgical community regarding the significance of early dolichocolon diagnosis, prevent misdiagnosis, and ultimately improve patient outcomes, including reducing complications associated with chronic constipation.