Which description of a stool is characteristic of intussusception?
A.
“Currant jelly” stools
B.
Loose, foul smelling stools
C.
Hard stools positive for guaiac
D.
Ribbon-like stools
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The characteristic description of stool associated with intussusception is A. “Currant jelly” stools.
Intussusception is a condition where a part of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent segment, leading to obstruction and reduced blood flow to the affected segment. This condition can occur in both children and adults but is more common in children. It is an urgent condition that requires prompt medical attention.
“Currant jelly” stools are so named because they have a distinctive appearance that resembles the dark red, gelatinous consistency of currant jelly. This stool characteristic is a result of the sloughing of the intestinal lining and the mixing of blood with mucus. The presence of currant jelly stools is a classic symptom of intussusception and occurs due to the significant bowel ischemia and necrosis in the obstructed segment. The blood and mucus mixture in the stool results from the inflammation and injury to the intestinal mucosa, which is why this stool appearance is often linked with intussusception.
Here’s a breakdown of why the other options are less characteristic of intussusception:
- B. Loose, foul-smelling stools: This description is more indicative of infections or gastrointestinal disturbances like bacterial gastroenteritis, where stools can be watery and have a strong odor. It is not typically associated with intussusception.
- C. Hard stools positive for guaiac: Hard stools, which may be positive for guaiac (indicating occult blood), are more commonly seen in conditions like constipation or hemorrhoids. Guaiac-positive stools indicate the presence of hidden blood, but this is not a specific finding for intussusception.
- D. Ribbon-like stools: Ribbon-like stools are often associated with colorectal cancer or other forms of intestinal obstruction but not specifically with intussusception. Intussusception usually causes obstruction leading to stool that is more indicative of mixed blood and mucus, like the currant jelly appearance.
In summary, the presence of currant jelly stools is a classic and specific sign of intussusception due to the intestinal tissue’s necrosis and resultant bloody and mucousy stools. This symptom helps in differentiating intussusception from other gastrointestinal conditions.