Calcified Diverticula in the Setting of Per Rectal Bleed

Abstract

Diverticula and calcification of tissue are both common processes; however, when occurring synergistically, they present a rare phenomenon. Our case of a 62-year-old female with frank blood per rectum revealed calcified diverticula on a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scan. This is a diagnosis of exclusion having ruled out differentials such as calcified fecaliths, ingestion of radiopaque liquids, pills or objects, calcified infectious cysts, and neoplastic masses. After resuscitation and stabilization of the patient, the subsequent priority shifted to the assessment of the rebleeding risk. With calcification being a rare occurrence with diverticula, it is unclear how this constant irritating nidus will affect the chances of rebleeding. Thus, for this particular phenomenon, patients with calcified diverticula should be monitored with dedicated surveillance to ascertain rebleeding rates.