A rare presentation of a gastric volvulus in an adult Bochdalek hernia: a case report

A Bochdalek hernia is a common congenital diaphragmatic defect in infants. A late presentation during adulthood is rare with misleading signs and symptoms, resulting in misdiagnosis and errors in treatment. We describe a 30-year-old man who presented with abdominal pain and chronic choking sensation, which was previously treated as peptic ulcer disease. During the present admission, radiological imaging performed revealed loops of bowel and a gastric volvulus in the left hemithorax. The patient underwent a successful emergency surgery and repair of a Bochdalek hernia. Due to its rarity and ambiguous presentation, a symptomatic Bochdalek hernia in an adult is commonly misdiagnosed. A comprehensive evaluation is pertinent for early diagnosis and treatment, to prevent complications arising from obstruction and strangulation of herniated intraabdominal contents.