Idiopathic perforation of caecum in a neonate: case report

We report perforation of the caecum without a demonstrable cause in a three days old, healthy, male neonate. He presented with abdominal distention and constipation. Abdominal radiograph showed massive pneumoperitoneum. Caecal perforation was found on exploration. The perforation was closed and a protective proximal ileostomy was performed. The rest of the large intestine and small bowel appeared normal. Hirschsprung's disease was ruled out by multiple seromuscular biopsies. At a three monthly followup after closure of ileostomy, the baby showed normal weight gain without any symptoms