The Journal of Emergency Medicine
Volume 22, Issue 3 , Pages 263-265, April 2002

Diverticular abscess presenting as prostate abscess and missed by abdominal CT scan

  • R.Giuseppi Slater, MD

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationReprint Address: R. Giuseppi Slater, MD, P.O. Box 1129, Salinas, CA 93902 USA
    • Department of Emergency Medicine, Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital, Hollister, California, USA and Department of Surgery (Emergency Medicine), School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA

Received 29 May 2001; received in revised form 22 October 2001; accepted 13 November 2001.

Abstract 

This is a case report of sigmoid diverticular abscess presenting as prostate abscess. Helical computed tomography (CT) scan revealed the prostate abscess but failed to demonstrate the underlying diverticular abscess. Colonic diverticular abscess can have many unusual presentations, and multiple imaging modalities may be required to reveal the underlying pathology. Abdominal CT scan is not always a definitive and absolute imaging modality for abdominal pain evaluation and cannot supplant clinical judgment in the evaluation of confusing cases.

Keywords:  sigmoid diverticular abscess, prostate abscess, pelvic abscess, abdominal computed tomography, CT scan, diverticulitis

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PII: S0736-4679(01)00482-6

The Journal of Emergency Medicine
Volume 22, Issue 3 , Pages 263-265, April 2002