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Last updated: October 30, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Intussusception

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Intussusception: This is the most likely diagnosis given the presentation, as it is a common cause of intestinal obstruction in children, characterized by the telescoping of one segment of intestine into another, leading to bowel ischemia and potentially necrosis if not promptly treated.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, often due to viral or bacterial infections, can cause symptoms similar to intussusception, such as abdominal pain and vomiting.
  • Incarcerated hernia: A hernia that becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back into the abdomen can cause severe pain and obstruction, mimicking intussusception.
  • Volvulus: A condition where the intestine twists around itself and the mesentery that supports it, cutting off blood flow, can present with similar symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Appendicitis: Although the presentation can differ, appendicitis is a critical diagnosis not to miss due to the risk of perforation and peritonitis, which can be life-threatening.
  • Mesenteric thrombosis: A blood clot in one of the major arteries that supply blood to the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain and ischemia, leading to necrosis if not promptly treated.
  • Internal hernia: A rare condition where there is protrusion of intestine through a defect within the peritoneal cavity, which can cause obstruction and ischemia.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Meckel's diverticulum: A congenital anomaly of the small intestine that can cause obstruction, bleeding, or inflammation, and might mimic intussusception in its presentation.
  • Intestinal lymphoma: A rare tumor of the immune system in the intestine, which can cause obstruction or intussusception.
  • Ovarian torsion: Although more common in females, this condition involves the twisting of the ovary around its ligaments, cutting off blood supply, and can present with acute abdominal pain, potentially mimicking intussusception.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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