Neonatal Appendicoumbilical Fistula

ABSTRACT

Umbilical anomalies arie from fetal structures such as the omphalomesenteric duct (OMD) or urachus, or from the failure to closure the umbilical fascial ring. The persistence of OMD may lead to several anomalies including umbilical sinus, umbilical cyst, Meckel's diverticulum, or patent OMD (POMD). The clinical signs are local swelling, redness, inflammation, umbilical discharge, and bleeding. The passage of the intestinal contents, through the umbilicus i.e., meconeum or gas, implies a fistula to some part of the intestine. A patent omphalomesenteric duct (OMD) is usually associated with the ileum, but rarely with the cecum or appendix. There have only been eight reports of a neonatal appendicoumbilical fistula. Here the authors report a rare and interesting example of an umbilico-appendiceal fistula, and discuss its etiology and treatment.