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Long-standing painless intussusception in adults
1First Department of Internal Medicine, Akita University School of Medicine, Japan.
European Radiology
|May 24, 2000
Summary
Long-standing painless intussusception in adults is rare but can be detected using abdominal ultrasound. Color Doppler findings suggest persistent blood flow is key, with tuberculosis being a potential underlying cause in some cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Adult intussusception is uncommon, particularly when presenting without significant pain.
- Painless intussusception often poses diagnostic challenges, especially in adults.
Observation:
- Three adult cases of long-standing painless intussusception were evaluated.
- Abdominal ultrasound (US) was initially indicated by a palpable mass in all patients.
- Intussusception was identified via US during periods of only mild abdominal discomfort.
Findings:
- Color Doppler ultrasound revealed persistent blood flow within the intussuscepted segment.
- This persistent blood flow is hypothesized as the primary pathomechanism for long-standing, painless intussusception.
- Tuberculosis was identified as the underlying etiology in two of the three reported cases.
Implications:
- Color Doppler US is a valuable tool for diagnosing intussusception in adults.
- Tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for adult patients presenting with painless intussusception.
- Early detection and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in adult intussusception.