An unexpected finding in a child with rectal blood loss using video capsule endoscopy

• DOI: 10.1007/s00431-005-0057-0
• Publication Date: 2006-01-12T10:55:32Z
• Authors: Merit M. Tabbers; Karlien F. Bruin; Jan A. Taminiau; Obbe F. Norbruis; Marc A. Benninga
• Keywords: Capsule

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) has recently enabled direct visualization of the small bowel mucosa. It is a noninvasive, painless procedure and provides detailed images from areas not accessible utilizing other radiographic or endoscopic methods. Capsule endoscopy has been reported to have a diagnostic yield for small bowel pathology greater than that derived from regular endoscopic and radiographic examinations [1, 3]. The diagnosis of obscure bleeding is currently the most frequent indication for capsule endoscopy in adults [1]. Although VCE is becoming an increasingly popular procedure, welldesigned studies on its clinical implications and application are only just emerging. In this report, we present a boy with rectal blood loss. Despite a negative result from radionuclide imaging, there was still a high clinical suspicion of a Meckel’s diverticulum. Consequently, VCE was performed with the purpose of avoiding unnecessary surgical treatment. Case report