Association between medication and intestinal intussusception in children: a case-crossover study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Clinical Epidemiology
• Pharmacovigilance

Background:

• Intussusception is a common cause of bowel obstruction in young children.
• The role of antecedent factors, including medication use, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the association between intussusception and recent medication intake in children.
• To identify specific drug classes or timing associated with increased risk.

Main Methods:

• A case-crossover study design was employed.
• Data from 95 pediatric intussusception cases in Valencia, Spain (2006-2009) were analyzed.
• Medication exposure was assessed for 2, 7, and 15 days prior to symptom onset, using pharmaceutical records.

Main Results:

• An increased odds ratio for intussusception was observed with medication use in the 2-15 days preceding symptom onset.
• The association was strongest for medication use within 2 days prior to symptom onset (OR, 2.26).
• Antibiotic administration within 2 days showed a significant association (OR, 8.00), particularly in children under two years.

Conclusions:

• Intussusception is more prevalent in boys under two years old.
• A significant association exists between intussusception and medication administration 2-7 days prior to symptom onset in children under two.
• Recent antibiotic use is a potential risk factor for pediatric intussusception.