CHRONIC CONSTIPATION IN INFANTS: THINK ABOUT RECTAL DUPLICATION

Abstract

Rectum is the least common site of gastrointestinal duplication. Up to now fewer than 100 cases have been reported in the literature. We present two infants with cystic rectal duplications manifested with chronic constipation as a main clinical symptom. The first patient was a 4-year-old boy who was admitted to emergency department because of chronic constipation unresponsive to fiber supplements and laxatives. Digital rectal exam revealed mass adjacent to posterior rectal wall. Abdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed oval, homogenous and hypoechogenic cystic mass (87x65x60 mm in size) behind the rectum. The size and location of the cystic mass was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The second patient was an 11-month-old boy who was hospitalized due to rectal bleeding. He was suffering from chronic constipation over the last five months. Digital rectal exam revealed a mass behind the rectum. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography showed unilocular cyst (33X33 mm in size) in front of the urinary bladder, partly extending into retrorectal space. Both patients were operated on. Postoperative periods were uneventful in both of them. Cystic rectal duplication must be ruled out in all infants with chronic constipation unresponsive to conservative treatment. Different imaging techniques are currently used to determine the precise size and location of duplication. Surgery is the only possible therapy option.