A Meckel's diverticulum persists due to incomplete obliteration of the vitello-intestinal (omphalomesenteric) duct. Which of the following correctly describes its embryological and clinical characteristics?

• A Remnant of the vitelline duct; occurs on the antimesenteric border of the ileum; 2% prevalence, 2 feet from ileocaecal valve, 2 inches long (rule of 2s); may contain ectopic gastric or pancreatic mucosa ✓
• B Remnant of the allantois; occurs on the mesenteric border of the jejunum; may contain ectopic colonic mucosa
• C Remnant of the urachus; located at the antimesenteric border of the colon; presents with haematuria
• D Remnant of the mesonephric duct; occurs in the ileum; contains ectopic renal tissue

Explanation

Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the GI tract. It is a true diverticulum (all three layers of bowel wall) occurring on the antimesenteric border of the ileum as a remnant of the vitelline (omphalomesenteric) duct. The classic 'rule of 2s': present in ~2% of population, ~2 feet (60 cm) proximal to the ileocaecal valve, ~2 inches (5 cm) long, often symptomatic before age 2, and may contain 2 types of ectopic mucosa (gastric most common, causing peptic ulceration and bleeding; or pancreatic). The urachus (allantois remnant) forms the median umbilical ligament; urachal anomalies present with umbilical/urinary symptoms.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.