Death of bowel tissue can occur with significant bleeding , perforation, and infection. Shock and dehydration can occur very rapidly. The cause of intussusception is not known although viral infections may be a possible cause. It affects boys 3 times more often than girls. Most cases occur in children between 5 months and 1 year of age.
Intussusception often begins with sudden loud and pained crying caused by abdominal pain .
The pain is colicky and intermittent but recurs frequently increasing in both intensity and duration. As the condition progresses the infant may become weak and then shocky. Early diagnosis is important in order to salvage both the bowel and the infant. A physical examination may reveal a mass in the abdomen . Signs of dehydration or shock may be present.