Intussusception mimicking rectal prolapse

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Radiology

Background:

• Intussusception is a common surgical emergency in infants and children.
• Ileocolic intussusception is the most frequent type, often presenting with symptoms that can mimic rectal prolapse.
• Colocolic intussusception is less common but can pose diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

• A 10-week-old male infant presented with a prolapsing mass that clinically resembled rectal prolapse.
• Initial evaluation suggested rectal prolapse, a condition typically associated with other types of intussusception.
• Diagnostic imaging revealed a colocolic intussusception as the underlying cause.

Findings:

• The case uniquely demonstrates colocolic intussusception presenting as a prolapsing rectal mass.
• This contrasts with the more commonly reported ileocolic intussusception mimicking rectal prolapse.
• The findings underscore the importance of considering intussusception in neonates with apparent rectal prolapse.

Implications:

• This case expands the differential diagnosis for rectal prolapse in neonates.
• It emphasizes the need for thorough investigation, including imaging, to differentiate intussusception from other causes of rectal prolapse.
• Accurate and timely diagnosis of colocolic intussusception is crucial for appropriate surgical management and improved patient outcomes.