Location
Moultrie, GA
Start Date
17-4-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
17-4-2026 1:00 PM
Description
Introduction: Meckel diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract and results from incomplete regression of the omphalomesenteric duct during early embryogenesis. Horseshoe kidney arises from abnormal fusion and arrested ascent of the metanephric kidneys during weeks 6–9 of development. Although both anomalies occur during overlapping gestational windows, their coexistence is rarely described. Recognition of such co-occurrence may provide insight into patterns of congenital variation and early developmental susceptibility.
Methods: During routine cadaveric dissection of a 74-year-old male donor, the abdominal cavity, small intestine, and retroperitoneum were systematically examined. A Meckel diverticulum was identified, measured (~60 cm from the ileocecal valve), and photographed. Renal anatomy was documented, including the relationship of the kidneys to surrounding vascular structures. Relevant literature was reviewed to explore potential developmental correlations between these anomalies.
Results: A horseshoe kidney was identified with fusion of the lower poles forming a midline isthmus located inferior to the inferior mesenteric artery and anterior to the great vessels. A Meckel diverticulum was observed along the antimesenteric border of the distal ileum, approximately 60 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. No additional gross congenital anomalies were identified.
Discussion: Meckel diverticulum arises from endodermal midgut structures, whereas horseshoe kidney originates from intermediate mesoderm during renal ascent and rotation. Despite differing germ layer origins, both anomalies develop during overlapping embryologic stages. Their concurrent presence may reflect a developmental field effect in which early disturbances in morphogenetic signaling influence multiple organ systems. Similar renal and gastrointestinal anomalies have been described in chromosomal disorders such as trisomy 18, supporting the concept that early developmental perturbations may affect structures derived from distinct embryologic tissues. This case highlights the value of cadaveric dissection in identifying rare congenital anomalies and underscores the importance of considering developmental field effects when evaluating multisystem anatomical variation. Recognition of such findings contributes to anatomical education and may inform future investigations into mechanisms underlying congenital malformations.
Embargo Period
5-26-2026
Included in
Concurrent meckel diverticulum and horseshoe kidney in a cadaver: Insights into developmental field effects
Moultrie, GA
Introduction: Meckel diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract and results from incomplete regression of the omphalomesenteric duct during early embryogenesis. Horseshoe kidney arises from abnormal fusion and arrested ascent of the metanephric kidneys during weeks 6–9 of development. Although both anomalies occur during overlapping gestational windows, their coexistence is rarely described. Recognition of such co-occurrence may provide insight into patterns of congenital variation and early developmental susceptibility.
Methods: During routine cadaveric dissection of a 74-year-old male donor, the abdominal cavity, small intestine, and retroperitoneum were systematically examined. A Meckel diverticulum was identified, measured (~60 cm from the ileocecal valve), and photographed. Renal anatomy was documented, including the relationship of the kidneys to surrounding vascular structures. Relevant literature was reviewed to explore potential developmental correlations between these anomalies.
Results: A horseshoe kidney was identified with fusion of the lower poles forming a midline isthmus located inferior to the inferior mesenteric artery and anterior to the great vessels. A Meckel diverticulum was observed along the antimesenteric border of the distal ileum, approximately 60 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. No additional gross congenital anomalies were identified.
Discussion: Meckel diverticulum arises from endodermal midgut structures, whereas horseshoe kidney originates from intermediate mesoderm during renal ascent and rotation. Despite differing germ layer origins, both anomalies develop during overlapping embryologic stages. Their concurrent presence may reflect a developmental field effect in which early disturbances in morphogenetic signaling influence multiple organ systems. Similar renal and gastrointestinal anomalies have been described in chromosomal disorders such as trisomy 18, supporting the concept that early developmental perturbations may affect structures derived from distinct embryologic tissues. This case highlights the value of cadaveric dissection in identifying rare congenital anomalies and underscores the importance of considering developmental field effects when evaluating multisystem anatomical variation. Recognition of such findings contributes to anatomical education and may inform future investigations into mechanisms underlying congenital malformations.