DIVERTÍCULO DE MECKEL PERFURADO POR ASCARIS LUMBRICOIDES: RELATO DE CASO

Abstract Introduction: Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital malformation of the gastrointestinal tract, present in around 2% of the population, and is asymptomatic in many cases. When symptomatic, it can lead to serious complications such as intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, bleeding and perforation. Its diagnosis is challenging due to the variable clinical presentation, and treatment often requires surgical intervention. Case report: A 12-year-old male patient presented with diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, hyporexia and altered bowel habits, with signs of peritonitis. Laboratory tests showed leukocytosis and X-rays showed distension of the intestinal loops. He was diagnosed with acute inflammatory abdomen and underwent laparotomy, where a perforated Meckel's diverticulum caused by Ascaris lumbricoides was found. The diagnosis was confirmed by anatomopathological examination, which revealed perforated acute diverticulitis. The patient was discharged on the 7th day with no complications. Discussion: The diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulitis is challenging due to its non-specific clinical presentation and can be confused with other abdominal conditions, such as appendicitis. Imaging tests, such as CT scans, are crucial for anatomical assessment. The definitive treatment is surgery, with resection of the diverticulum to avoid serious complications such as peritonitis and prolonged intestinal obstruction. Conclusion: Meckel's diverticulum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of children with abdominal pain and intestinal obstruction. Surgical resection of the diverticulum has an excellent prognosis, minimizing the risk of serious complications. Keywords: Acute abdomen; Meckel's diverticulum; Strange body; Perforation; Ascaris; Ascaridosis.