Torsion of the primary epiploic appendagitis: a case series and review of the literature.

Background: Differential diagnosis and appropriate treatment of epiploic appendagitis (EA) is a dilemma for general surgeons because of nonspecific signs and symptoms.

Methods: Twelve patients (3 women and 9 men, average age 40 years, range 18-82 years) who were diagnosed as having EA upon presenting to the emergency department or at the time of discharge between April 2002 and September 2008 were included.

Results: The major presenting symptom was abdominal pain.