intussusception

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intussusception (in-tŭs-sŭ-sep-shŏn) n. the telescoping (invagination) of one part of the bowel into another, resulting in intestinal obstruction. It is most common in young children under the age of four years. Symptoms include intermittent screaming and pallor, vomiting, and the passing of stools resembling redcurrant jelly; if the condition does not receive prompt surgical treatment, shock from gangrene of the bowel may result.

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