Spontaneous omental infarction as a rare differential for right iliac fossa pain: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Key Clinical MessageOmental infarction is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain, often benign and self‐limiting. The significance of infarction lies in the fact that it can mimic other abdominal pathologies including appendicitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or reflux disease. Diagnostic laparoscopy provides the definitive diagnosis of omental infarction, but it is invasive and limited due to resources. Computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis has been considered the gold standard to diagnosing omental infarction when a non‐invasive diagnostic approach is required. Additionally, ultrasound can also be used alternatively for children. Currently, there is no consensus in the diagnosis and management of patients with imaging‐proven omental infarction. Spontaneous infarcted omentum must be considered by surgeons and radiologists as a rare cause of acute abdominal pain as patients can experience good outcomes with either conservative or operative approach. However, conservative management must only be considered in stable patients where alternative pathology is unlikely.image