[Intestinal intussusception in the adult]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Abdominal Surgery

Background:

• Intussusception, a condition where one part of the intestine slides into another, presents differently in adults compared to children.
• Adult intussusception typically follows a chronic course, contrasting with the acute presentation often seen in pediatric cases.

Observation:

• The chronic nature of adult intussusception frequently leads to diagnostic delays and incorrect initial diagnoses.
• Key diagnostic tools include sonography, radiologic imaging, and endoscopic procedures.
• Surgical indications in adults may not always align with the underlying cause of intussusception.

Findings:

• Four cardinal symptoms—abdominal pain, vomiting, a palpable tumor, and melena—should raise suspicion for intussusception in adults.
• The chronic presentation can mimic other gastrointestinal conditions, complicating diagnosis.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of chronic intussusception in adults is crucial for timely and accurate diagnosis.
• Prompt and appropriate diagnostic workups are essential to avoid therapeutic delays.
• Understanding the distinct clinical course in adults can improve patient outcomes by ensuring correct diagnosis and treatment.