Intussusception associated with transient hypertension

L L Barton1, K Chundu

  • 1Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics/Adolescent Medicine, Missouri.

Pediatric Emergency Care
|December 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of infant intussusception presented with hypertension, a previously unreported symptom. Surgical intervention was necessary for resolution, highlighting a critical diagnostic consideration in pediatric emergencies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pediatrics
  • Neonatal Hypertension

Background:

  • Intussusception is a common cause of bowel obstruction in infants.
  • Hypertension is not a typical finding associated with intussusception.

Observation:

  • A three-month-old infant exhibited symptoms of vomiting, lethargy, and severe hypertension.
  • Initial abdominal ultrasound suggested intussusception.
  • Barium enema confirmed the diagnosis of intussusception.

Findings:

  • The infant's hypertension was a novel presentation of intussusception.
  • Hypertension resolved only after surgical resection of the intussuscepted segment.

Implications:

  • This case suggests a potential association between intussusception and hypertension in infants.
  • Clinicians should consider intussusception in infants presenting with unexplained hypertension.
  • Early surgical management may be crucial for resolving both intussusception and associated hypertension.

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