Giant cystic meconium peritonitis presenting in a neonate with classic radiographic eggshell calcifications and treated with an elective surgical approach: A case report

Erik R. Barthel, Allison L. Speer, Daniel E. Levin, Bindi J. Naik-Mathuria, Tracy C. Grikscheit

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Giant cystic meconium peritonitis is relatively rare. Patients often present with nonspecific physical findings such as distension and emesis. Plain abdominal films remain invaluable for identifying the characteristic calcifications seen with a meconium pseudocyst, and large eggshell calcifications are pathognomonic for the giant cystic subtype. Case presentation: We present classic plain X-ray findings and an intraoperative image of a premature low birth weight two-day-old Hispanic male baby treated for giant cystic meconium peritonitis with a staged procedure involving peritoneal drainage, ostomy creation and closure. Conclusion: Pediatric surgeons have a range of potential therapeutic approaches for giant cystic meconium peritonitis. A delay of definitive surgical management in the setting of massive abdominal soiling is a safe and acceptable strategy if adequate temporizing drainage is performed in the early perinatal period.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number229
JournalJournal of Medical Case Reports
Volume6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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