Intussusception presents as usual epigastric pain in an adult: a case report

Adult intussusception constitutes 5% of all cases of intussusception and 1%-5% of cases of bowel obstruction in adults. More than 90% of cases of intussusception are caused by pathologic mechanisms, such as carcinoma, polyps, or benign neoplasms. A 32-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with mild epigastric pain that progressed to moderate intensity and vomiting without peritonitis. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) was performed and showed ileoileal intussusception. Emergency surgery was arranged. This case report highlights the unusual presentation of intussusception in adult patients, such that a high level of clinical experience is needed to properly diagnose this condition. For unexplained presentations of persistent abdominal pain without signs of peritonitis, we recommend early abdominal CT scan and surgical intervention to prevent life-threatening diseases.