[Intestinal intussusception in children: truly a classic triad?]

Abstract

Intussusception in children is not a frequent pathology but it is important to consider when working in a paediatric emergency department due to the potential serious complications in the case that the diagnosis is not rapidly identified. The majority of cases are idiopathic and in only 10% of patients will a pathological lead point be found. One would be in error to wait for the classical triad presentation before beginning the appropriate diagnostic testing. Hence, the diagnosis of intussusception should be suspected in all children, under the age of 3 years, with acute colicky abdominal pain. In this practical review, we have included the clinical experience in intussusception seen in 2 Swiss university paediatric hospitals.