What is intussusception?

Intussusception is specifically identified as a condition of intestinal obstruction where a part of the intestine folds into the section next to it, resembling a telescope. This misalignment can lead to a blockage, disrupting the flow of food and potentially leading to more serious complications such as ischemia or perforation of the intestine. It is most commonly seen in children but can also occur in adults, often due to underlying conditions.

Understanding this definition is essential because it underscores the urgency of recognizing the condition in a clinical setting. In the context of medical imaging and CT scans, identifying intussusception is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning. Incontrast, the other options refer to entirely different medical phenomena, with types of cancer, forms of arthritis, and imaging techniques not being directly related to the primary definition or implications of intussusception as a clinical condition.