Q43.4: Duplication of intestine

Duplication of intestine, as the name suggests, is a rare medical condition where a portion of the intestinal tract is duplicated in the body. This condition is usually present from birth, but symptoms may not appear until later in life. A patient with intestinal duplication might experience various symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting, or sometimes, gastrointestinal bleeding. These symptoms are usually caused by obstructions or complications relating to the duplicated portion of the intestine. Unusually, the duplicated segment can sometimes function normally which might delay diagnosis. The condition typically affects the digestive system and can cause difficulties with digestion and nutrient absorption. Further potential complications can result from related conditions such as the formation of a cyst or tumor in the duplicated portion. Commonly, the exact cause of intestinal duplication is unknown, and it may be discovered incidentally during medical investigations for other conditions.