Intestinal pseudo-obstruction as an unusual gastrointestinal presentation in pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection

ABSTRACT

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is a condition in which the intestine's ability to push food through is reduced. It often leads to the dilation of the various parts of the bowel. It can be idiopathic or inherited from a parent, or caused by another disease. We report a rare case of human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection in a 3-year-old boy who referred with acute abdominal pain, and was later diagnosed as having intestinal pseudo-obstruction caused by HIV. The underlying causes of intestinal pseudo-obstruction should be taken into account. HIV induced pseudo-obstruction may be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction in order to provide a timely diagnosis and optimal care of children with HIV