Intussusception as a complication of rotavirus infection in children

Complications in the form of intestinal intussusception and pneumatosis intestinalis are one of the factors constituting the severity of RV infection. Intestinal intussusception is the most common form of intestinal obstruction in children. The aim of this study was to discuss and analyze the clinical course of cases of acute rotavirus infection complicated by intussusception and/or pneumatosis intestinalis. Materials and method: The retrospective analysis included data of 613 patients with acute gastroenteritis, hospitalized in the Gastroenterology Unit of Department of Pediatrics of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice in 2013. Rotavirus etiology was confirmed in 276 (45%) cases. Results: Complications in the form of intussusception and/or pneumatosis were found in 5 (1.8%) children (among them were 3 girls and 2 boys) aged from 2.5 to 7.5 years, with severe RV infection. Moreover, in one case, in 9-year-old boy, infection with rotaviral and adenoviral etiology was observed. The study included a detailed history from carers, including in particular the type of symptoms, the period in which the described symptoms occurred, concomitant diseases, the history of diseases, and optionally current treatment. Conclusion: Although, the diarrhea is generally self-limiting mild disease, its course should be monitored, not only because of the problem of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance but also because of the possibility of complications in the form of intussusception and/or pneumatosis intestinalis.