[Intussusception in infants].

Intussusception, the invagination of a portion of the intestine into an adjacent segment, is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in post neonatal children. Most cases are idiopathic, but in about 2-12% the intussusception evolves secondary to an underlying abnormality. Classically, there is sudden onset of attacks of screaming, accompanied by pallor, vomiting, and irritability in a previously health child. Some gradually become weaker and lethargic. We evaluated variations in presenting symptoms and outcome as related to age and time until admission. There were incidence peaks in the spring and autumn. 48% developed irritability, while 42% were described as apathetic. These results emphasize the importance of awareness that apathy can be a major presenting symptom. The younger the child, the greater the rate of success of reduction by hydrostatic pressure. In those admitted within 24 hours of onset, the rate of reduction was twice that in those admitted later. Awareness of atypical symptoms and early diagnosis may affect treatment and improve prognosis.