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Altered consciousness as a precocious manifestation of intussusception in infants
Insights
Altered consciousness in infants may signal ileo-colic intussusception, a serious condition. Early consideration of this diagnosis is crucial for prompt treatment in affected infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Intussusception is a common cause of intestinal obstruction in infants.
- Central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction is an uncommon but recognized complication of intussusception.
Observation:
- Two infants, aged 5 and 8 months, presented with significant alterations in consciousness.
- These neurological changes were the earliest signs of ileo-colic intussusception.
Findings:
- The reported cases highlight a precocious manifestation of ileo-colic intussusception presenting as altered sensorium.
- A review of existing literature indicates various CNS abnormalities associated with intussusception.
Implications:
- Altered consciousness in infants without an obvious cause warrants consideration of intussusception.
- This emphasizes the importance of including intussusception in the differential diagnosis for acute neurological changes in infants.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of intussusception can prevent severe complications.
Abstract:
Two infants aged 5 and 8 months respectively who developed a marked alteration in consciousness as a precocious manifestation of ileo-colic intussusception are reported. Previously described abnormalities of central nervous system function accompanying intussusception are reviewed. It is suggested that in the face of acutely altered sensorium without apparent cause in the infant the diagnosis of intussusception should be considered.