Intussusception as a First Sign of HIV Infection
Author Information
Author(s): Kehagias Ioannis, Karamanakos Stavros N, Panagiotopoulos Spyros, Giali Sofia, Gogos Charalambos A, Kalfarentzos Fotis
Primary Institution: Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion University Hospital, Patras, Greece
Hypothesis
Can intussusception be the first clinical sign of HIV infection in adults?
Conclusion
Intestinal intussusception may indicate silent HIV infection, and patients with this condition should be tested for HIV.
Supporting Evidence
- Intussusception is rare in adults but can be associated with HIV.
- The patient had no previous history of HIV infection.
- Imaging revealed a typical 'target sign' of intussusception.
Takeaway
Sometimes, when someone has a blockage in their intestines, it can be a sign of a hidden illness like HIV. Doctors should check for HIV in these cases.
Methodology
The case involved a 58-year-old man diagnosed with intussusception, followed by serologic tests for HIV after initial imaging suggested obstruction.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
58-year-old white heterosexual Greek man.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website