What is Meckel diverticulum?

Meckel diverticulum is an outpouching or bulge located in the lower part of the small intestine, specifically the ileum. It is a remnant of the vitelline duct, which connects the yolk sac to the developing intestine during fetal development. The diverticulum is typically formed when the vitelline duct fails to obliterate completely, leading to this abnormality.

In pediatric patients, Meckel diverticulum can sometimes cause complications, such as obstruction, bleeding, or inflammation. Although it can be asymptomatic, when symptomatic, it often presents with abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding, making its identification crucial in pediatric care.

The other options describe conditions that are unrelated to Meckel diverticulum, reinforcing the importance of accurately recognizing the specific nature of congenital anomalies and gastrointestinal conditions in pediatric patients.