5. Small Intestine Intussusception: A Complex Conundrum
In Peutz Jeghers Syndrome, intussusception of the small intestine is a severe condition where a part of the intestine folds into another segment. This is a dangerous symptom, often causing severe abdominal pain and possibly leading to a medical emergency.
This intussusception doesn’t merely happen. It’s usually triggered by the presence of polyps that act as lead points, causing the intestine to fold over itself. Unlike standard blockages, this condition often leads to a severe form of obstruction, hampering both the flow of material through the intestine and the blood supply to affected tissues.
What sets this symptom apart is its sudden onset and severe consequences. Once the intussusception occurs, time becomes a critical factor. The longer it remains untreated, the higher the chances of intestinal necrosis—death of the tissue—which can have catastrophic outcomes. (5)
