Gastroschisis associated with intestinal duplication cyst

Introduction: Gastroschisis is much less frequently associated with anomalies than omphalocele. The most common associated anomaly is gastrointestinal abnormalities. Intestinal atresia is found in 10-15% of cases of gastroschisis. Intestinal duplication is a very rare association. Case report: We present a unique case of gastroschisis with an associated intestinal (colonic) duplication cyst in a 4 -day -old 36 weeks pre-term, delivered to a primiparous 16 year old mother, presenting on account of anterior abdominal wall defect with protrusion of bowel through a defect on the right side of the umbilical cord. Examination showed a tubular mass protruding through a 3 cm defect on the right side of the umbilical cord, with a narrow appendix -like appendage at the summit. Laparotomy was done within 24 h of admission. Findings include a protruding tubular mass adherent to the serosa and muscularis layer of the mid transverse colon and the adjacent greater omentum. Mass was excised. Results: He did well postoperatively but developed surgical site infection which was managed by daily wound dressing. He was discharged 2weeks post operative and was doing well at last follow up visit. Histopathology confirmed smooth muscle lining of the cyst wall, with interspersed goblet cells within the mucosa. Conclusion: This report underscores the importance of thorough examination of content of gastroschisis for prompt diagnosis of rare anomalies like intestinal duplication.