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 This information is provided by an independent source. Merck & Co., Inc. is not responsible for this content. Please discuss any and all treatment options with your healthcare professional. The manufacturer of a product generally has the most complete information about that product.
Intussusception (children)DefinitionIntussusception is the sliding of one part of the intestine into another. CausesIntussusception is caused by part of the intestine being pulled inward into itself. This can block the passage of food through the intestine. If the blood supply is cut off, the segment of intestine pulled inside can die. The pressure created by the walls of the intestine pressing together causes:
The intestine can die, and the patient can have significant bleeding. If a hole occurs, infection, shock, and dehydration can take place very rapidly. The cause of intussusception is not known, although viral infections may be responsible in some cases. Sometimes a lymph node, polyp, or tumor can trigger the problem. The older the child, the more likely such a trigger will be found. Intussusception can affect both children and adults, although most cases occur in children ages 6 months - 2 years. It affects boys four times as often as girls. SymptomsThe first sign of intussusception is usually sudden, loud crying caused by abdominal pain. The pain is colicky and not continuous (intermittent), but it comes back often, increasing in both intensity and duration. An infant with severe abdominal pain may draw the knees to the chest while crying. Other symptoms include: Exams and TestsYour doctor will perform a thorough examination, which may reveal a mass in the abdomen. There may also be signs of dehydration or shock. Tests may include:
TreatmentThis version of the Encyclopedia has no treatment information. Please discuss any and all treatment options for your condition with your healthcare professional. Outlook (Prognosis)The outcome is good with early treatment. There is a risk the condition will come back. Possible ComplicationsA hole (perforation) is a serious complication due to risk of infection. If not treated, intussusception is almost always fatal for infants and young children. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalIntussusception is an EMERGENCY. Call your health care provider immediately, then call 911 or go immediately to the emergency room. ReferencesKliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF. Kliegman: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.
Review Date:
4/20/2008 Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. 
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