An unknown situs viscerum inversus totalis, accidentally discovered after a CT scan

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Situs inversus totalis (SIT) of the viscerum is a benign condition, often diagnosed accidentally, which can affect male or female individuals. This case report shows a young female patient who accidentally discovers a SIT after a CT (computed tomography) done for acute abdominal pain. In this uncommon anatomical abnormality, the major visceral organs are reversed in the opposite direction. The study aims to highlight the significance of being aware of and considering the situs inversus in clinical practice, particularly when interpreting imaging findings and planning medical procedures is crucial for the differential diagnosis and the several comorbidities that could affect those groups of patients. The origin of SIT is still unknown, but this condition is frequently asymptomatic, especially in infants. METHODS: The patient in the study arrived at the Emergency Department with left flank pain, nausea, and fever, therefore a CT with a contrast medium was done; she had never had a CT scan before. RESULTS: The identification of SIT was unexpected and coincidental; the CT images were carefully examined. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with chest or abdominal pain after CT, the radiologists should be aware of the possibility of a SIT. This knowledge can help in the differential diagnosis avoiding unneeded interventions. Moreover, comorbidities affecting several systems, particularly cardiovascular and pulmonary problems, affect quite a few patients with SIT, which should be carefully examined.