[Rectal prolapse in a 3-year-8-month-old child]

C Frollo de Kerlivio1, S Willot, M-C Machet

  • 1Clinique médicale pédiatrique, hôpital mère-enfant, 7, quai Moncousu, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France.

Insights

Rectal prolapse in children can be linked to pseudomembranous colitis. Prompt antibiotic treatment for this condition can resolve rectal prolapse without recurrence.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Colorectal Surgery

Background:

  • Rectal prolapse presents diverse etiologies and treatment strategies.
  • A recent pediatric case highlights potential links between rectal prolapse and infectious colitis.

Observation:

  • A 3-year-old boy experienced recurrent rectal prolapse with bloody, phlegmy diarrhea.
  • Diagnostic investigations revealed pseudomembranous colitis, confirmed via biopsy, despite negative stool analysis.

Findings:

  • Pseudomembranous colitis, often associated with Clostridium difficile toxins, is a severe form of postantibiotic diarrhea.
  • Standard treatment involves a 10-day course of oral antibiotics (metronidazole or vancomycin).
  • The reported case of rectal prolapse resolved without recurrence following antibiotic therapy for pseudomembranous colitis.

Implications:

  • This case suggests a potential causative relationship between pseudomembranous colitis and rectal prolapse in children.
  • Effective management of pseudomembranous colitis may lead to resolution of associated rectal prolapse.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of infectious colitis are crucial for pediatric patients presenting with rectal prolapse.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Pyloric Obstruction01:11

Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...
Psychosexual Stages of Personality: Anal01:26

Psychosexual Stages of Personality: Anal

Sigmund Freud's theory of psychosexual development describes the anal stage as occurring between 18 months and three years of age. During this period, children derive pleasure from controlling and releasing their bowel movements. However, they quickly learn that societal expectations impose restrictions on when and where this can happen. This stage marks a critical point where children begin to develop a sense of control and mastery over their bodily functions, as well as their broader...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD: