Agenesis of the dorsal mesentery presenting in an adolescent

Abstract

Agenesis of the dorsal mesentery is a rare occurrence that usually presents in children. It is associated with proximal small-bowel malrotation as well as high jejunal atresia with discontinuity of the small bowel. We present a case report of an adolescent presenting with clinical features of proximal small-bowel obstruction (confirmed on imaging) as well as acute pancreatitis. At laparotomy, he was found to have no dorsal mesentery, without small-bowel atresia, and the duodenum was fixed to the posterior abdominal wall. The patient recovered well and remained symptom-free.