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Primary intestinal pseudo-obstruction

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Digestive system organs
Digestive system organs

Alternative Names    Return to top

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction; Acute colonic ileus; Colonic pseudo-obstruction; Idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction; Ogilvie's syndrome; Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction

Definition    Return to top

Primary intestinal pseudo-obstruction is a condition in which there are symptoms of intestinal blockage without any physical signs of a blockage.

Causes    Return to top

In primary intestinal pseudo-obstruction, the small or large intestines lose their ability to contract and push food, stool, and air through the gastrointestinal tract.

The condition can occur suddenly (acute) or over time (chronic). It may occur at any age, but is most common in children and the elderly. Because the cause is unknown, it is also called idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (idiopathic means occurring without reason).

Risk factors include:

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Signs include:

Tests include:

Treatment    Return to top

In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Most cases of acute pseudo-obstruction get better in a few days with treatment. The disease may return, and can continue for many years.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if you have persistent abdominal pain or other symptoms of this disorder.

References    Return to top

Batke M, Cappell MS. Adynamic ileus and acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. Med Clin North Am. 2008;92:649-670.

Talley NJ. Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Dyspepsia, and Noncardiac Chest Pain. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 139.

Update Date: 8/22/2008

Updated by: Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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