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Intussusception can present with unexplained lethargy in infants. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Intussusception is a common surgical emergency in infants and young children.
- Lethargy can be an early and prominent symptom, often masking the underlying condition.
Observation:
- A 6-month-old infant presented with lethargy as the primary symptom.
- This case highlights the importance of considering intussusception in infants with unexplained lethargy.
Findings:
- Early diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion.
- Key diagnostic steps include abdominal plain films, rectal examination, and stool occult blood testing.
Implications:
- Simultaneous radiologic and surgical consultation is recommended.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment increase risks of complications such as perforation, peritonitis, sepsis, and mortality, and decrease barium enema reduction success.
Abstract:
A case of intussusception in a 6 month old with lethargy as the initial and predominant system is presented. Children presented to the Emergency Department with otherwise unexplained lethargy should have intussusception as part of the differential diagnosis. A plain film of the abdomen should be obtained. A rectal exam should be done, and a stool checked for occult blood. Radiologic and surgical consultation should be sought simultaneously. Delay in diagnosis and treatment may be associated with decreased success rates of reduction by barium enema, and increased rates of complications of perforation, peritonitis, sepsis, and death.