Paediatric Ileocolic Intussusception Associated with SARS-COV-2 Infection

Abstract

Paediatric intussusception is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in paediatric population. Since 2019, the global pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection has significantly impacted worldwide healthcare. It has variable manifestations such as respiratory and extra-respiratory manifestations, and paediatric intussusception has been reported as one of the rare gastrointestinal manifestations of COVID-19. Though COVID-19 is mainly associated with respiratory manifestations, paediatric population may present with gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and poor oral intake, before or with the onset of respiratory symptoms. Paediatric intussusception in COVID-19 is uncommon, and the initial presentation may be mistaken not as gastrointestinal manifestation of COVID-19. It is important for physicians to have a high clinical suspicion, especially in paediatric population, to differentiate between these entities. Early recognition and prompt intervention can improve patient care and prevent complications. This case also raises the possibility of role of SARS-COV-2 virus in etiopathological cause of paediatric intussusception. Here, we report a case of paediatric ileocolic intussusception in a patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection.