Spontaneous perforation of Meckel's diverticulum in a neonate.

A case of a male newborn infant with spontaneous perforation of Meckel's diverticulum is reported. The clinical course consisted of delayed occlusive disorders and bloody stools following 36 h of normal gastrointestinal transit, without pneumoperitoneum and infection. Pathogenesis of the perforation is discussed and the importance of early diagnosis, especially in maternity hospitals, is emphasized.