[Malformations (duplications) of the terminal ileum in adults. Report of 3 unusual cases].
Three cases of rare malformations of the ileo-cecal region (duplications) are discussed and compared to 20 others of the same kind already published. The main characteristics are an inflammatory symptomatology, especially in the right hypogastrium, with periodic recurrences. Since the clinical, radiological, endoscopic and biopsy findings often simulate Crohn's disease, patients must frequently undergo years of unsuccessful medical treatment and innumerable follow-up examinations. Nevertheless, when certain findings are taken into consideration they can lead to correct diagnosis of this rare disease, which is established through pathological anatomy. The special features of the disease are described in detail. It can be definitively cured through resection of the ileo-cecal segment.