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Fatal intestinal obstruction in the mentally handicapped
1Stoke Park Hospital, Bristol, England.
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research : JIDR
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Fatal intestinal obstruction occurs more frequently in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Chronic constipation and megacolon are identified as significant risk factors, often presenting with subtle symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Intestinal obstruction is a serious condition with varying mortality rates.
- Understanding risk factors and presentation in specific populations is crucial for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, causes, and outcomes of fatal intestinal obstruction over 50 years.
- To identify risk factors and diagnostic challenges in mentally handicapped individuals.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of hospital records for 32 fatal intestinal obstruction cases.
- Comparison with national mortality statistics and control groups.
- Review of patient demographics, comorbidities, and clinical presentation.
Main Results:
- Higher incidence and lower mean age at death for intestinal obstruction compared to the general population.
- Intestinal volvulus common in cerebral palsy; high prevalence of chronic constipation and megacolon.
- Delayed diagnosis and minimal signs/symptoms in mentally handicapped individuals.
Conclusions:
- Fatal intestinal obstruction is more prevalent in mentally handicapped individuals.
- Chronic constipation and megacolon are significant risk factors.
- Delayed presentation with subtle signs necessitates heightened clinical suspicion.