Recurrent small bowel intussusceptions: an uncommon presentation of celiac disease in an Arab child

Samia Al Furaikh1, Abdullah A Al Zaben

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad National Guard Hospital, PO Box 22490 Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia.

Tropical Gastroenterology : Official Journal of the Digestive Diseases Foundation
|June 25, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Recurrent small bowel intussusception in infants can be caused by celiac disease, an uncommon condition. A gluten-free diet resolved intussusception and improved failure to thrive in a young Saudi girl.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

  • Recurrent bowel intussusception in infants often has unidentified causes.
  • Uncommon etiologies, like gluten-sensitive enteropathy (celiac disease), are frequently overlooked.

Observation:

  • A 3-year-old Saudi girl presented with small bowel intussusception diagnosed via abdominal CT.
  • The patient also exhibited failure to thrive.

Findings:

  • Celiac disease was diagnosed through further investigations.
  • The patient's small bowel intussusception resolved completely after initiating a gluten-free diet.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering celiac disease in pediatric patients with recurrent intussusception.
  • Early diagnosis and dietary management of celiac disease can lead to complete resolution of intussusception and improved growth.

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