Abdominal Ultrasound Evaluation for a 3-Year-Old Man with Iron Deficiency Anemia and Abdominal Pain

Abstract

Abdominal pain is a common complaint in the GI clinic. For pediatric patients, ultrasound is a useful tool for screening and evaluation the etiology and prevent unnecessory exposure to radiation. A 3-year-old boy presented to the hematology clinic due to anemia (Hb 4.4g/dL) and intermittent abdominal pain. An evaluation with abdominal ultrasound was performed. Abdominal ultrasound revealed target sign over left upper abdomen and intussusception was diagnosed. Repeated trial of air reduction of the intussusception failed. A leading point was suspected from the ultrasound and colonoscopy was performed. A 3cm polypoid was identified in the splenic flexure and resected. The pathology revealed juvenile polyp. Although rare, a leading point should be considered in pediatric intussusception. Abdominal ultrasound examination provides valuable information for this patient.