Stercoral perforation of a cecal diverticulum: A rare presentation

Abstract

Introduction: Right-sided diverticular disease, including cecal diverticulum, is a relatively uncommon occurrence when compared to left-sided diverticular disease, particularly in Western countries. Even more rare than this is the perforation of these diverticulum due to stercoral colitis. Case Report: We report the case of an 83-year-old man who presented to the Emergency Department with a relatively brief history of periumbilical and right lower quadrant pain, associated with nausea and low-grade fevers, and a computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrating perforation of a large cecal diverticulum requiring acute surgical management. Conclusion: Perforation of a cecal diverticulum is rare, particularly when due to stercoral colitis, and can be often misdiagnosed. It should be considered in the context of the systemically unwell older patient with a history of constipation.