Spontaneous duodenal perforation in an infant : Case report

ABSTRACT: Spontaneous duodenal perforation in an infant is a rare entity. A seven month old underweight infant, who presented with peritonitis and shock, was resuscitated and operated upon. At laparotomy, a 0.5 cm perforation in the posterior wall of duodenum at the junction of its first and second part, abutting the head of pancreas was found. Perforation was closed and omentoplasty was performed. Post operatively, the patient developed features of DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation)but recovered. Possible etiology of perforation could be acute duodenal ulcer with low flow state due to prolonged septicemic shock. Timely surgery and efficient pediatric care led to survival of the infant.