What is the peak presentation age for Meckel's diverticulum?

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Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital anomaly that arises from the incomplete closure of the omphalomesenteric duct during embryonic development. The peak age for presentation is typically around 2 years old, which is associated with the common occurrence of complications such as bleeding, obstruction, or inflammation at this age. Most cases are diagnosed in children, and symptoms often arise when the diverticulum becomes inflamed or causes gastrointestinal obstruction.

While it can be found in older children and adults, the likelihood of symptomatic Meckel's diverticulum significantly increases in the younger population, especially in toddlers. Therefore, recognizing that 2 years is the peak presentation age helps in diagnosing and managing this condition appropriately in pediatric practice.

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