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Updated: Nov 6, 2025

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Published on: July 21, 2023
An Unusual Presentation of Intussusception.
Kathryn Dickson1, Ann E Gerhart, K Sue Hoyt
1Emergency Department, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, California (Ms Gerhart); Emergency Department, Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, California (Dr Dickson); and Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, Beyster Institute for Nursing Research, University of San Diego, California (Dr Hoyt).
This case highlights an unusual presentation of intussusception in an infant. Pneumatic enema reduction proved successful, offering superior outcomes for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Intussusception is a common cause of bowel obstruction in infants.
- Typical symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and bloody stools.
Observation:
- A 9-month-old infant presented with nonbilious, nonbloody emesis and was afebrile with normal vital signs.
- Initial radiography raised concerns for obstruction; ultrasonography confirmed intussusception.
Findings:
- The infant's presentation was atypical, lacking common signs of severe illness.
- Pneumatic enema reduction was successfully performed, a method with superior outcomes in infants.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering intussusception even with atypical presentations.
- Advanced practice providers must maintain vigilance, perform thorough evaluations, and utilize appropriate diagnostics for pediatric emergencies.
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