Work

Appendi-sception unveiled: a case report of a toddler with concurrent ileocolic intussusception and appendicitis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Ileocecal (ileocolic) intussusception is a time-critical pediatric surgical emergency and a leading cause of acute bowel obstruction in infants and toddlers. Acute appendicitis, although the most common pediatric surgical emergency overall, is uncommon in very young children and is diagnostically challenging at the extremes of age. The coexistence of ileocolic intussusception with acute appendicitis, often termed "appendisception," is rare and frequently recognized during surgery. Case presentation: We report a 1-year-9-month-old child who presented with features consistent with ileocecal intussusception. Initial evaluation and imaging supported the diagnosis. The patient proceeded to operative management, where intraoperative findings unexpectedly revealed an inflamed appendix, consistent with acute appendicitis, within the intussuscepted segment. Surgical reduction of the intussusception and appendectomy were performed, with an uneventful postoperative recovery. Discussion: This case underscores important diagnostic pitfalls in young children, in whom overlapping clinical features may obscure dual pathology. Intussusception may mask appendicitis, while appendiceal inflammation can act as a pathological lead point. Ultrasound remains the first-line imaging modality, but careful evaluation of the appendix is recommended, particularly in atypical or recurrent cases, or following failed enema reduction. Awareness of appendiceal intussusception is essential to guide timely operative decision-making. Conclusion: Although rare, the coexistence of ileocolic intussusception and acute appendicitis should be considered in infants and toddlers with atypical presentations or failed nonoperative reduction. A high index of suspicion, meticulous imaging, and pragmatic surgical management are crucial to optimizing outcomes.

Source: International Journal of Surgery Case Reports

DOI: 10.1097/rc9.0000000000000753

Authors: Irene Kilenzi, Anthony Mulokozi, Masawa K. Nyamuryekung’e

Institution: Aga Khan Hospital Dar es Salaam

Language: English

Topic: Gastrointestinal disorders and treatments

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,090