Abstract
A giant colonic diverticulum (GCD) is a rare presentation of diverticular disease of the colon that usually necessitates surgery. The case described is of a GCD that became symptomatic due to rapid enlargement caused by an intracolonic bleed. GCD usually presents with abdominal pain and a palpable periumbilical or pelvic mass. Radiological imaging shows a large gas-filled cyst associated with the colon. Surgical resection with sigmoid colectomy is usually performed to alleviate symptoms and prevent later perforation.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Praveen BV, Suraparaju L, Jaunoo SS, Tang T, Walsh SR, Ogunbiyi OA. Giant colonic diverticulum: an unusual abdominal lump. J Surg Educ 2007;64(2):97-100.
Naing T, Ray S, Loughran CF. Giant sigmoid diverticulum: a report of three cases. Clin Radiol 1999;54:179-181.
Custer TL, Blevins DV, Vara TM. Giant colonic diverticulum: a rare manifestation of a common disease. J Gastrointest Surg 1999;3:543-548.
Choong CK, Frizelle FA. Giant colonic diverticulum—report of four cases and review of the literature. Dis Colon Rectum 1998;41:1178-1186.
Kricum R, Stastik JJ, Reither RD, Dex WJ. Giant colonic diverticulum. Am J Roentgenol 1980;135:507-512.
De Oliveira NC, Welch JP. Giant diverticula of the colon: a clinical assessment. Am J Gastroenterol. 1997;92:1092-1096.
Rosenberg RF, Naididh JB. Plain film recognition of giant colonic diverticulum. Am J Gastroenterol 1981;76(1):59-69.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Beddy, D., DeBlacam, C. & Mehigan, B. An Unusual Cause of an Acute Abdomen—a Giant Colonic Diverticulum. J Gastrointest Surg 14, 2016–2017 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11605-010-1235-6
Received:
Accepted:
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11605-010-1235-6