Terminal ileum Burkitt's lymphoma related ileocolic intussusception in a five-year-old child: a case report and review of literature

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Intussusception is a common pediatric condition characterized by the invagination of a proximal bowel segment into a distal segment, leading to intestinal obstruction and acute abdominal symptoms. While most cases are idiopathic, rare secondary causes, such as gastrointestinal Burkitt lymphoma, can occur. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 5-year-old Ethiopian male presented in January 2024 with a 24-h history of crampy abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, and currant jelly stool. Examination revealed fever (38 °C), tachypnea (28 breaths/min), tachycardia (125 bpm), and abdominal tenderness. Ultrasound showed a target sign, and after resuscitation, the patient underwent surgery for suspected intussusception. Intraoperatively, ileocecal intussusception with an intraluminal mass serving as the lead point was identified and resected with primary anastomosis. Histopathology confirmed Burkitt lymphoma. Postoperative follow-up was uneventful. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Burkitt lymphoma is a highly aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that rarely presents as a lead point for ileocecal intussusception in children. While factors like immunocompromise and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are often implicated, sporadic cases, such as the one presented here, can occur without identifiable risk factors. Diagnosis typically relies on postoperative histopathology, and complete surgical resection is associated with excellent outcomes. CONCLUSION: Burkitt lymphoma is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that can rarely cause secondary intussusception. Accurate postoperative evaluation and histopathological diagnosis, along with complete surgical removal followed by chemotherapy, are essential for a favorable outcome.