Intussusception: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
The condition intussusception occurs when a part of the intestine slides into another part, causing a blockage and sometimes a loss of blood supply. There is a greater risk of intussusception in children than in adults. Intussusception can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody stools. It is an emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Causes
The exact cause of intussusception is not known, but it may be related to:
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A viral infection that causes swelling of the lymph nodes in the intestine
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A growth or abnormality in the intestine, such as a polyp, tumor, or diverticulum
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A previous surgery or injury that affects the intestine
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A congenital defect or malformation of the intestine
Some factors that may increase the risk of intussusception are:
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Age: Children between 6 months and 3 years are more likely to develop intussusception, especially boys
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Family history: Having a sibling or parent who had intussusception may increase the risk
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Certain diseases or conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, or Henoch-Schönlein purpura
Symptoms
The symptoms of intussusception may vary depending on the location and severity of the blockage, but they usually include:
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Sudden and severe abdominal pain that comes and goes, often making the child cry and draw their knees to their chest
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Vomiting, which may be green or yellow
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Bloody or mucus-like stools, which may look like red currant jelly
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A lump or mass in the abdomen that can be felt
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Fever, lethargy, or shock
The symptoms of intussusception in adults may be less obvious and more chronic, such as:
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Intermittent abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating
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Nausea, diarrhea, or constipation
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Weight loss or loss of appetite
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Anemia or low blood count
Diagnosis
Intussusception can be diagnosed by a physical examination and imaging tests, such as:
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Ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the intestine and detect the blockage
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X-ray, which uses radiation to create images of the abdomen and show the gas pattern and the shape of the intestine
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Barium enema, which involves inserting a contrast dye into the rectum and taking X-rays of the colon and the small intestine
Treatment
The treatment of intussusception depends on the age of the patient, the type and location of the blockage, and the presence of complications. The main options are:
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Air or liquid pressure is used to push the intestine back into place in non-surgical treatments. This can be done with an air or liquid enema, or with a fluoroscope, a special device. Although this method works in most cases of intussusception in children, it may not work in adults, complex cases, or cases of recurrent intussusception.
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When non-surgical treatment fails or is not possible, or when there is evidence of perforation, infection, or gangrene, surgical treatment is performed by making an incision in the abdomen and manually reducing or removing the affected part of the intestine.
Prevention
There is no specific way to prevent intussusception, but some general measures that may help reduce the risk are:
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Keeping up to date with vaccinations, especially the rotavirus vaccine, which may protect against viral infections that can trigger intussusception
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Seeking medical attention for any signs of intestinal problems, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or blood in the stools
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Eating a balanced and healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent constipation and maintain a good bowel function
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Avoiding exposure to toxins, allergens, or irritants that may damage the intestine
Intussusception is a serious condition that can cause intestinal obstruction and ischemia. It requires immediate diagnosis and treatment to avoid complications and improve the outcome.
