Neurologic Presentations of Pediatric Intussusception Lead to Diagnostic Delay and Increased Need for Surgery.
Yılmaz Seçilmiş, Seda Gümüştekin Bilgin, Ahmet Burak Doğan
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Case in brief
A 2-year-old boy presented with orofacial dyskinesias and upper-extremity jerks, initially misdiagnosed as tardive dyskinesia. Despite normal neurological examination and brain MRI, he developed bilious vomiting. Abdominal imaging revealed ileocolic intussusception, necessitating surgical intervention due to an invaginated Meckel diverticulum. Post-surgery, his abnormal movements resolved completely.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights a rare presentation of intussusception with predominant neurological symptoms, leading to a misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider intussusception in young children presenting with unexplained acute neurological symptoms, especially when neurological evaluations are normal.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of early abdominal imaging in pediatric patients with atypical presentations to prevent diagnostic delays and improve outcomes.