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Symptoms of Intussusception

Jun 01, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
1. Hematochezia: Intussusception leads to the invagination of the mesentery, compromising blood supply to the intestinal wall and resulting in intestinal ischemia. 2. Abdominal pain: Intussusception causes intestinal obstruction, which subsequently triggers abdominal pain. 3. Palpable abdominal mass—typically located in the ileocecal region (i.e., the right lower quadrant). Additionally, intussusception may cause vomiting.

Intussusception is classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary intussusception most commonly occurs in infants and young children, whereas secondary intussusception is more frequently seen in adults. Intussusception refers to the telescoping of one segment of intestine into the lumen of an adjacent intestinal segment, resulting in obstruction of intestinal contents. So, what are the symptoms of intussusception? The following section addresses this question.

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Symptoms of Intussusception

1. Hematochezia (Rectal Bleeding)

Hematochezia is the most common symptom of intussusception. Following intussusception, the mesentery becomes entrapped within the intussuscepted segment, compromising blood supply to the bowel wall and leading to ischemia. This ischemia causes necrosis and sloughing of the intestinal mucosa. As blood remains in the intestinal lumen for an extended period and mixes with intestinal mucus, it forms characteristic “currant jelly” stool. If hematochezia occurs, prompt medical attention is essential—immediate evaluation at a hospital is strongly recommended to avoid treatment delays.

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2. Abdominal Pain

Paroxysmal abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms of intussusception. It results from intestinal obstruction caused by the intussusception itself. Additionally, the invaginated bowel segment becomes compressed within the distal intestinal lumen, causing ischemia of the proximal bowel wall; prolonged ischemia further contributes to abdominal pain. Consequently, severe abdominal pain typically accompanies intussusception. Preventive measures include avoiding cold exposure and refraining from consuming spicy, greasy, or otherwise irritating foods.

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3. Palpable Abdominal Mass

Patients with intussusception often present with a palpable abdominal mass—typically located in the ileocecal region (i.e., the right lower quadrant). In addition, intussusception may cause vomiting, pallor, diaphoresis (cold sweats), and flexion of the lower limbs. In adults, intussusception is usually associated with underlying pathology, such as benign or malignant intestinal tumors, polyps, or ascariasis—all of which disrupt normal intestinal peristalsis and predispose to intussusception.

The above outlines the key clinical manifestations of intussusception. I hope this information has been helpful!

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