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Causes of Intussusception

In children, causes of intussusception may include an intestinal obstruction, a viral infection, and an enlarged lymph gland. When the condition occurs in adults, causes of intussusception may include adhesions, long-term diarrhea, and growths. In some cases, doctors are unable to identify what causes intussusception.

 

Causes of Intussusception: An Overview

Intussusception is a rare blockage or twisting of the intestine, which can be life threatening. Intussusception is most common among young children; it is rare in adults. The possible causes of intussusception will vary, depending on if it occurs in a child or adult.
 

Causes of Intussusception in Infants and Children

Possible causes of intussusception in infants and children can include:
 
  • Viral infections, such as adenovirus
  • Growth in the small bowel or colon (a polyp or tumor)
  • Enlarged lymph gland.
     
In the past, some cases of intussusception appeared to be associated with a childhood vaccine for rotavirus called RotaShield®, a common cause of gastroenteritis (intestinal infection). That vaccine is no longer given. (A new rotavirus vaccine, RotaTeq®, is now available.)
 
However, in most cases of the condition in children and infants, the causes of intussusception are not known.
 

Causes of Intussusception in Adults

Possible causes of intussusception in adults can include:
 
  • Benign or malignant (cancerous) growths
  • Adhesions (scar-like tissue)
  • Surgical scars in the small bowel or colon
  • Motility disorders (problems with the movement of food through the digestive tract)
  • Long-term diarrhea.
     
Some cases of intussusception have been associated with viral infections and in patients living with AIDS. It can also occur without any known cause (idiopathic).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD