Pediatric ischemic bowel disease

What is pediatric ischemic bowel disease?

Ischemic bowel disease happens when there is not enough blood flow to a child’s intestines. Blood carries oxygen that the small and large intestines need to function; when there is decreased blood flow, the intestines do not receive the oxygen they need.

Blood flow to the intestines may be limited due to a blockage or narrowing in an artery that supplies blood to the intestines. Ischemic bowel disease can range from mild to severe, depending on the blockage and can develop suddenly or happen gradually over time.

In some cases, ischemic bowel disease is a medical emergency and could lead to death without treatment.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric ischemic bowel disease?

• Abdominal pain

• Blood in stools

• Diarrhea

• Distended and bloated abdomen

• Feeling full after eating small amounts

• Fever

• Frequent urge to have a bowel movement

• Nausea or vomiting

• Unintended weight loss

What are the causes of pediatric ischemic bowel disease?

Ischemic bowel disease may be caused by:

• Atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries)

• Blood clot in an artery causing blockage

• Bowel obstruction

• Certain medications, such as chemotherapy or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs)

• Hypotension (low blood pressure)

• Tumor in an artery causing blockage