Ultrasonographic diagnosis of ileo-ileal intussusception secondary to Vanek's tumor

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Intussusception is a common cause of bowel obstruction in children, but accounts for only 1% of adult bowel obstructions.
• In adults, intussusception is frequently associated with a pathologic lead point, often a neoplasm (60%).
• Inflammatory fibroid polyps (IFPs), or Vanek's tumors, are rare benign submucosal lesions causing adult intussusception.

Observation:

• Adult intussusception presents with varied, non-specific symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Computed tomography (CT) is sensitive for diagnosing intussusception, but bowel sonography (BS) is also an accurate imaging modality.
• This paper details a rare instance of ileo-ileal intussusception in an adult, attributed to a Vanek's tumor.

Findings:

• Bowel sonography (BS) successfully diagnosed ileo-ileal intussusception secondary to Vanek's tumor.
• The case underscores the diagnostic utility of BS in identifying intussusception, even when caused by uncommon lesions.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of rare causes of adult intussusception.
• It emphasizes the role of advanced imaging techniques like BS in diagnosing challenging gastrointestinal conditions.
• Highlights the importance of considering neoplasms as lead points in adult intussusception.