Ileocecal colonic intussusception with adenocarcinoma: A rare case report and management strategy

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Intussusception, a condition primarily seen in pediatric populations, involves the telescoping of one segment of the bowel into an adjacent section. In adults, intussusception is rare and presents unique diagnostic and management challenges. This case report highlights a 73-year-old female with ileocecal colonic intussusception complicated by an underlying adenocarcinoma, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach.

Case presentation: A 73-year-old female with a history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes presented with right-sided abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Physical examination revealed tenderness in the right upper quadrant, and no palpable mass or rectal bleeding. Lab results, including tumour markers, were normal. Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) identified ileocecal colonic intussusception with the "target sign" and low colonic wall enhancement. An emergency laparoscopic right colectomy was performed due to compromised blood supply. Postoperatively, an anastomotic leak was managed with antibiotics, bowel rest, and wound care. Pathological examination revealed cecal adenocarcinoma with one positive lymph node, staged as T3N1aM0, necessitating adjuvant chemotherapy.

Clinical discussion: Adult intussusception, a rare condition, often has an identifiable organic cause, with clinical symptoms ranging from acute to chronic or asymptomatic. Diagnostic imaging, such as MDCT, plays a crucial role in diagnosis and evaluation. Surgical management varies based on the nature and location of the lead point. In this case, the chronic symptoms, lymph node as the lead point, and low colonic wall enhancement warranted an urgent laparoscopic right colectomy with complete mesocolic excision.

Conclusion: This case underscores the complexity of adult ileocecal colonic intussusception, especially when associated with adenocarcinoma. Timely diagnosis, multidisciplinary collaboration, and meticulous surgical intervention are essential. Effective management of postoperative complications, like the anastomotic leak, is crucial.

Keywords: Adenocarcinoma; Case report; Ileocecal colonic intussusception; Laparoscopy; Surgery.