The role of steroids in children with multiple recurrences of intussusception

Robert Lopez1, Spencer W Beasley, Russell Blakelock

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.

Insights

This case study highlights a boy with recurrent intussusception, likely caused by lymphoid hyperplasia rather than a distinct lesion. Treatment with oral prednisolone successfully resolved the condition, preventing further intussusception episodes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Case Reports

Background:

  • Intussusception is a common surgical emergency in children.
  • Recurrent intussusception often necessitates identification of a lead point lesion.
  • Idiopathic or recurrent intussusception can be challenging to manage.

Observation:

  • A pediatric patient presented with nine episodes of intussusception.
  • No pathological lead point lesion was identified during investigations.
  • A contrast follow-through study showed a prominent follicular/nodular mucosal pattern in the terminal ileum and cecum.

Findings:

  • The intussusception recurrences were presumed to be due to lymphoid hyperplasia.
  • A two-month tapering course of oral prednisolone was administered.
  • No further intussusception recurrences were observed after treatment.

Implications:

  • Lymphoid hyperplasia may be an underrecognized cause of recurrent intussusception in children.
  • Oral corticosteroids can be an effective treatment for intussusception secondary to lymphoid hyperplasia.
  • This case suggests a potential non-surgical management option for specific cases of recurrent intussusception.

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