Meckel diverticulum — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateGIMeckel diverticulumRACP Paediatrics

A 5-year-old presents with painless large-volume rectal bleeding (dark red blood). He is otherwise well with no abdominal pain or diarrhoea. Haemoglobin is 85 g/L. What is the most likely cause?

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Correct answer: E — Meckel diverticulum

Painless significant rectal bleeding in a child aged 2-5 years is characteristic of a Meckel diverticulum containing ectopic gastric mucosa causing ulceration. A Technetium-99m pertechnetate (Meckel) scan can identify ectopic gastric tissue. It follows the rule of 2s: 2% of population, 2 feet from ileocaecal valve, 2 cm long, 2 types of ectopic tissue.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – GI Bleeding CPG; RACP Paediatric Curriculum – Gastroenterology