Intususseption

Pediatrics, Intussusception

Background: Intussusception is the telescoping or prolapse of one portion of the bowel into an immediately adjacent segment. Contrast enema can reduce the intussusception in approximately 75% of cases.
Pathophysiology: Intussusception most commonly occurs at the terminal ileum (ie, ileocolic). The telescoping proximal portion of bowel (ie, intussusceptum) invaginates into the adjacent distal bowel (ie, intussuscipiens).
The mesentery of the intussusceptum is compressed, and the ensuing swelling of the bowel wall quickly leads to obstruction. Venous engorgement and ischemia of the intestinal mucosa cause bleeding and an outpouring of mucous, which results in the classic description of red 'currant jelly' stool.
Most cases (90%) are idiopathic, with no identifiable lesion acting as the lead point or pathological apex of the intussusceptum.
Frequency:

In the US: Intussusception is the predominate cause of intestinal obstruction in persons aged 3 months to 6 years. The estimated incidence is 1-4 per 1000 live births.
Mortality/Morbidity: Most patients recover if treated within 24 hours.
Mortality with treatment is 1-3%. If left untreated, this condition is uniformly fatal in 2-5 days.
Recurrence is observed in 3-11% of cases. Most recurrences involve intussusceptions that were reduced with contrast enema.
Sex:
Overall, the male-to-female ratio is approximately 3:1.
With advancing age, gender difference becomes marked; in patients older than 4 years, the male-to-female ratio is 8:1.
Age: Intussusception is most common in infants aged 3-12 months, with an average age of 7-8 months.
Two thirds of the cases occur before the patient's first birthday.
Intussusception occurrence is rare in persons

eMedicine - Pediatrics, Intussusception : Article by Lonnie King, MD

posted by Intussusception Medical Care Amateur - @ Intususseption: August 2006 0 comments

Henoch-Schönlein Purpura

Henoch-Schönlein purpura is an IgA-mediated, autoimmune, hypersensitivity vasculitis of childhood that results in a triad of symptoms, including a purpuric rash occurring on the lower extremities, abdominal pain or renal involvement, and arthritis. However, any of the triad may be absent, which often leads to confusion in diagnosing the condition. Although the cause is unknown, Henoch-Schönlein purpura is often associated with infectious agents such as group A streptococci and Mycoplasma. It has also been associated with food reactions, exposure to cold, insect bites and drug allergies. Treatment is supportive, and children affected by this disorder need close follow-up of renal status.

posted by Intussusception Medical Care Amateur - @ Intususseption: August 2006 0 comments

Get Back Your Pre-Pregnancy Abs With Side Planks | Pregnancy

Get Back Your Pre-Pregnancy Abs With Side Planks | Pregnancy: "Side planks are great for toning, without enlarging, the obliques on the side of your abdomen. Strong oblique muscles also add powerful stability to your back. Asthetically, side planks can sculpt your stomach in ways crunches or sit-ups just can't do. The nice thing about side planks is they can be done in little time and you don't need any equipment."

posted by Intussusception Medical Care Amateur - @ Intususseption: August 2006 0 comments