SIGMOID VOLVULUS IN A YOUNG WOMAN NEARLY MISDIAGNOSED AS FECAL IMPACTION

Abstract Background Volvulus of the sigmoid colon is a potentially life-threatening condition rarely seen in younger age groups and is male predominant. Objective We report a previously healthy young woman with the triad of constipation, progressive abdominal distension, and severe abdominal pain, with plain-film x-ray studies mimicking stool impaction and computed tomography disclosing the typical findings of sigmoid volvulus. The case reminds Emergency Physicians to consider sigmoid volvulus if mechanical obstruction is suspected, even in a young patient. Case Report A 33-year-old woman had the triad of symptoms for 3 days. Physical examination did not show peritoneal signs. Digital rectal examination disclosed neither palpable mass nor stool in rectum. Computed tomography revealed "coffee bean" sign and "whirl" sign. Laparoscopy demonstrated redundant sigmoid colon and she was treated with detorsion with colopexy uneventfully. Conclusions Sigmoid volvulus is rarely seen in developed countries. Clinical manifestations vary with disease progression, but it typically presents with a triad of constipation, progressive abdominal distension, and severe abdominal pain. Plain-film x-ray studies can demonstrate a coffee bean or "omega loop" (inverted-U sigmoid) sign in 50% when bowel gangrene develops.