7. Intussusception: When the Intestine Telescopes
Picture a telescope, how one segment slides into another. Now, imagine that happening inside the body, where a part of the intestine slides into the adjacent segment. This peculiar phenomenon is known as intussusception, and it’s primarily seen in children, especially before the age of two.
What triggers such an unusual event inside the body? The exact cause in most children remains unknown. However, in some cases, an enlarged lymph node or a benign polyp can serve as a lead point, causing the intestine to telescope. The symptoms can be distressing – periodic episodes of severe abdominal pain, often with the child drawing their knees up.
Here’s a fascinating fact: the affected intestine’s appearance often resembles a “target” or “doughnut” on ultrasound, leading to its diagnostic signature. If left untreated, intussusception can lead to bowel obstruction, with the telescoped segment becoming swollen and potentially leading to complications.
The intrigue surrounding intussusception isn’t just its unusual nature but also its treatment. A procedure using air or fluid can often push the telescoped segment back to its place, like unstacking the rings of a toy. However, in some cases, surgery might be necessary to correct it and prevent recurrence. (7)
