Is it possible to predict the spontaneous reduction of pediatric intussusception using biomarkers?

BackgroundIntussusception is one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain in childhood. In this study, we hypothesized that alpha-glutathione S-transferase (alpha-GST), intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (IFAB), and inflammatory markers may predict spontaneous reduction in ileocolic intussusceptions, thereby preventing unnecessary interventions.MethodsA single-center, prospective case-control study was conducted in the Pediatric Emergency Department. Patients with ileocolic intussusception were categorized into three subgroups: spontaneous reduction, hydrostatic reduction, and those requiring surgery. Levels of Alpha-GST, IFABP, and routine inflammatory markers were measured prior to intervention.ResultsA total of 52 cases of intussusception and 26 control patients were included in the study. Spontaneous reduction occurred in seven patients, while 45 patients required intervention. A statistically significant difference was observed between the patient and control groups regarding Alpha-GST, C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count, neutrophil count, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). However, IFABP did not show a statistically significant difference. Alpha-GST, NLR, and CRP levels were significantly higher in the group requiring intervention than in the spontaneous reduction group.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that Alpha-GST, NLR, and CRP may predict spontaneous reduction in cases of intussusception and thereby minimize the need for unnecessary interventions.