Ileo-ileal intussusception in a premature neonate: an unusual cause of NEC in premature babies.

Abstract

Intussusception is a rare entity in neonates. It may present with non-specific signs including abdominal distension, feeding intolerance, vomiting and bloody stools. Symptomatology is similar to Necrotizing Entero-Colitis (NEC). Ultrasound can help to establish early diagnosis in neonate. A 27-week preterm newborn was initially suspected as NEC based on abdominal distention, bilious vomiting, worsening clinical condition and dilated loops of bowel on X-ray, which turned out to be ileo-ileal intussusception. Diagnosis was made by ultrasound obtained for a palpable mass to rule out intra abdominal abscess and lack of improvement in clinical condition despite 5 days of conservative treatment. Surgery was performed consisting of removal of the necrotic intussusception area and end-to-end anastomosis and patient was discharged from hospital on day 60 of life. As a conclusion, pathological abdominal findings in preterm newborns can also be due to conditions other than NEC and ultrasound may be a useful tool for timely and accurate diagnosis.

• Authors: Nilgun Altuntas, Oznur Boyunaga, Ramazan Karabulut, Ebru Kazanci, Ferit Kulali, Esra Onal, Canan Turkyilmaz, Ebru Ergenekon
• Journal: Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP (J Coll Physicians Surg Pak) Vol. 25 Issue 1 Pg. 76-7 (Jan 2015) ISSN: 1681-7168 [Electronic] Pakistan
• PMID: 25604376 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Female
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
• Humans
• Ileal Diseases (diagnosis, surgery)
• Infant, Newborn
• Infant, Premature
• Infant, Premature, Diseases (diagnosis, surgery)
• Intussusception (diagnosis, surgery)
• Pregnancy
• Treatment Outcome
• Ultrasonography